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Common Impact Data Standard Standards

Aligned tools

The easiest way to create an impact data capsule.

We want everyone to be able to create and share impact data capsules, not just data scientists. To make this possible, the Common Impact Data Standard has been embedded into aligned tools—software and data utilities—to enable organizations to adopt without needing an advanced degree!

Each aligned tool offers different features and levels of data complexity. We encourage organizations to take their time while exploring tools and reflect on their own unique impact needs.

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What is an impact data capsule?

The Common Impact Data Standard allows users to create an impact data capsule containing all your impact data. An impact data capsule can be shared from platform to platform with little human effort—exporting data to those who need it.

All aligned tools are able to export an impact data capsule that can be easily shared with any other aligned tool. Because data is easier to share, it’s possible to share more of it! Any aligned software or data utility can read and make sense of the bespoke data sets and reports generated by another aligned software or data utility.

Aligned software

Aligned software is one way to create and share impact data capsules. Software offers an alternative for SPOs who prefer not to use spreadsheet-based systems or want to explore ready-to-use impact measurement and management systems. Whether your organization is new to impact measurement or a seasoned pro, software is an option worth considering!

▶️ To view demonstrations of each of the aligned softwares, check out the “Meet the softwares” playlist on the Common Approach YouTube channel.

If you’re already using a software, and want to keep using it, we want to help! Please send your software partner the programmers & developers page, or get in touch directly, so we can help them get started on their alignment journey.

Aligned software partners

Software exploring alignment

The following software aren’t yet aligned with the Data Standard, but have expressed interest in aligning. If these software look like they would meet your needs, consider letting them know that alignment to the Data Standard would be of value to you!

Aligned data utilities

Aligned data utilities are another way to create and share impact data capsules. Data utilities are a good option for SPOs who prefer to use spreadsheet-based systems for their impact measurement and management needs.

The aligned data utilities are still being refined with our test groups. If you’re interested in using them, please contact us directly!

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Airtable extension

The Airtable extension is imported into your Airtable base, allowing you to input your data and export an impact data capsule.

Airtable extension
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Excel Add-in

The Excel Add-in is added to your Excel workbook, allowing you to input your data and export an impact data capsule.

Excel Add-in
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Excel Python script

The Python script is coded into your existing Excel workbook, allowing you to export data as an impact data capsule. This script is intended for use by those familiar with Python and coding.

Python script

What’s in an impact data capsule?

All impact data capsules contain the following data:

  • all indicators (or metrics), including how the indicator is measured, its baseline and changes over time
  • the relevant connections of indicators to outcomes
  • stakeholder characteristics (such as income, location, household, gender, etc)

This is known as “basic tier” data. Some impact data capsules can contain more complex data, known as “essential tier” and “full tier”. The three tiers reflect the different levels of data complexity that can be recorded in different aligned tools.

To explore which tool falls under each tier, visit the programmers & developers page.