Impact Assessment of CSR Projects by certified Social Impact Assessor/ Auditor

Key Elements of Social Audit

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  (a) Three party relationship amongst Social Auditor, reporting party (i.e. NGO/Implementing Agency/ Donor) and Stakeholders.

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  (b) Project/ Program/ Intervention.

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  (c) Project monitoring framework This is very critical since it will help Social Auditor to understand the project(s) and its nuances, identify key evaluation parameters, thematic areas and benefits rendered. Following are parameters basis which impact of the project may be assessed:

I. Why Evaluation?

• Performance Assessment: Evaluates project outcomes to ensure transparency and stakeholder engagement.
• Identifies Deficiencies: Allows for timely corrections, improving current and future project outcomes.
• Social Audit: Engages the community directly in monitoring, enhancing project implementation.
• Fact-Finding, Not Fault-Finding: Focuses on improvement rather than criticism.

II. Consultation Process for Social Audit

• Concurrent Auditing: Conducts evaluations at different stages—pre-intervention, during implementation, and post-completion.
• Pre-Consultation: Helps to identify initial gaps and set realistic, community-aligned outcomes through stakeholder engagement.
• Implementation Stage Focus: Conducting audits during active phases allows for real-time corrective actions, maximizing the project’s effectiveness.

III. General Principles of Social Audit

• Child-Centric Approach: In educational projects, prioritizes children’s rights and parental involvement, focusing on marginalized groups.
• Transparency: Findings are evidence-based, made publicly accessible, and transparently communicated.
• Community Participation: Ensures inclusivity, allowing equal representation from all stakeholders, especially marginalized groups.
• Objectivity and Dialogue: Maintains neutrality, encourages solution-oriented dialogue, and documents action steps.

IV. Steps of Audit Process

• Stages of Audit: Divided into Pre-Audit, Implementation Phase, and Post-Audit to ensure thorough assessment and adaptation.
• Pre-Audit Preparation:Tasks: Establish an agreement with the NGO, form a dedicated audit team, assign a nodal officer, and provide a list of required documents.
• Implementation Phase:Engagement: Interact with teachers, principals, parents, and students to gather feedback. Publicize site visits and record all stakeholder views, especially from parents and students.
• Audit Phase:Actions: Implement corrective measures within a set timeline and submit Action Taken Reports.

V.Reporting

• Compile a detailed social audit report summarizing findings, conclusions, and actionable recommendations. Present the report to management and stakeholders, emphasizing key insights, concerns, and recommendations to enhance project performance and social impact.

VI.Follow-up and Monitoring

• Set up ongoing monitoring and evaluation mechanisms to track the implementation of audit recommendations. This continuous follow-up ensures improvements in project outcomes and accountability over time.