We recently had a powerful training session with Saskia Gent from Insights for Impact, focusing on how to create real, measurable impact through our actions.

In a world where the measure of success often lies in the tangible impact of our actions, understanding how to effectively plan and execute for impact is crucial. This was the focus of our recent training session led by Saskia Gent from Insights for Impact, an event that brought together individuals passionate about making a meaningful difference through their work.

Here's what we learned:

Start with a Plan and Engage Stakeholders Early

Saskia Gent highlighted starting with a clear plan for what impact you want to achieve and how you'll get there. Engaging with those affected by your work early on ensures your efforts meet actual needs and expectations, helping to avoid misunderstandings about what success looks like.

Set Clear Goals and Partner Up

Clear, achievable goals are essential—they act as your guide. But don't go it alone. Forming strong partnerships can offer new insights and resources, making your impact louder and broader. It's a reminder that working together often leads to greater success.

Be Flexible and Keep Evaluating

Flexibility and continuous evaluation are crucial. The journey to impact is full of surprises, requiring you to adapt and reassess regularly. This approach helps you stay on track, even when things get complicated.

Collect Various Evidence of Your Impact

Real impact needs real proof. Collecting a mix of evidence, from numbers and stories to case studies, shows the full picture of your impact. This varied evidence helps demonstrate not just how much you're achieving, but how and when your efforts are making a difference.

Overall, the workshop with Saskia Gent gave us invaluable insights into planning and executing impactful work. From the importance of early planning and stakeholder engagement to the power of partnerships, flexibility, and diverse evidence, these lessons apply far beyond research. With these strategies, we're better prepared to make a meaningful impact in our projects and beyond.