Social Return on Investment (SROI) analysis: Is it for us? Are we ready?

Congrès 2026 de la SCÉ - Ateliers

Social Return on Investment (SROI) analysis: Is it for us? Are we ready?

Le vendredi 22 mai, 16 h (heure de l'Est)

Titre : Social Return on Investment (SROI) analysis: Is it for us? Are we ready?

Résumé : An SROI analysis shows the monetary value ($) of program outcomes for primary and secondary beneficiaries. Rather than simply reporting the outcomes to funders, it can show the return to investment in humans, and cost avoidance for systems. SROI holds potential to be very helpful for advocacy for resources and supportive policies as it links results to funding. It would be wonderful if all NGOs and government could show that their efforts in care, health promotion and prevention don't just cost, but actually pay back (and at many times the cost in some cases). Unfortunately, a quality SROI analysis is neither easy or inexpensive. It requires skill in making decisions and negotiating to get to a quality analysis. If resources aren't available in-house, a little experienced help can go a long way. Three presenters will share insights from 8 analyses, including a common 3-year project, to illuminate challenges and opportunities SROI presents. The workshop will help you address three questions: 

1. if an SROI analysis is appropriate for your initiative; 

2. If it is ready (or can get ready) for SROI; and 

3. What you can do yourself and where you may need assistance or advice.

Présentation : Claire MacDonald, Eugene Krupa, Vamini Selvanandan, MD, MPH

Type: Express workshop (90 minutes, online)

Langue : English 

Expertise : All three have experience in designing and delivering professional workshops - in person and online. Much of Gene and Vamini's work with Catalyst colleagues and clients in Canada, and internationally, is online. Gene is also a pioneer in online learning, and led development of the world's first complete online Master's in Public Health program at University of Alberta (1997-2015). Claire is also a skilled and experienced presenter - in person and online.

Niveau : Intermediate

Prérequis : Participants should have basic knowledge and understanding of the following: 1. The basics of evaluation and what constitutes good data for analysis. 2. The basic principles and concepts of SROI. We can provide a concise reading package in advance so learners can acquire this knowledge prior to attending. We will also provide a guide to reflection so participants and begin thinking about a program to which to apply the concepts and workshop process.

Objectifs : Participants will come away from the workshops with 

1. Knowledge of the opportunities presented by conducting SROI analysis, as well as problems and challenges one is likely to encounter. 

2. Ability to analyze their own program situation and determine if it is suitable for SROI analysis. 

3. An assessment of the best way forward - i.e., whether he/she should conduct it themselves, conduct it with assistance, subcontract the project

Stratégies : An outline for 90 minute workshop is as follows 

1. Introductions and a poll to gather questions (10 min) 

2. SROI opportunities, problems, challenges one can encounter - Introduced with Role play (with 3 presenters) then developed further with reactions from participants. 

3. Analyzing one's situation to determine suitability and readiness - Using Readiness worksheet and group discussion 

4. Assessing the best way forward - Using our "Reflection Guide" to determine whether he/she should conduct it themselves, conduct it with assistance, subcontract the project, abandon the idea (perhaps for on outcomes) 

5. Closure, next steps and feedback from participants.