9 things to avoid doing in philanthropy
Over the last four years, I have captured a growing log of learning. This list below is a simplified version of that log. Sometime soon, I hope to write more about each of these items.
Things to avoid doing (many of which I have done!):
Make assumptions about causal mechanisms without robust evidence to suggest as much.
Introduce multi-step evaluation processes without ensuring you have the capacity to deliver on it.
Use terms like theory of change and SROI without ensuring everyone’s on the same page.
Draft a theory of change without input from various and diverse perspectives.
Deliver an evaluation plan without clearly articulating what decisions will be informed/made on the basis of the data uncovered.
Prepare an evaluation plan without clearly articulating key uncertainties and where we need to improve knowledge.
Fail to strongman the opposite argument to what you believe.
Make a decision without first considering the strongman argument for the alternative choice.
Fail to slow down and enjoy it.
You have probably already gathered that the inverse of all those things are what I recommend we do. But here are some more anyway.
Things to do:
Identify, gather, and listen to different forms of knowledge on a topic. Seek to have a rounded view, not just the mainstream view.
If it’s ever political, ensure you understand and can articulate both sides of the argument.
Never assume that the opposite opinion is wrong. Philanthropy is incredibly emotion-driven at times and this is a trap.
Identify critical assumptions early and work very, very hard to test them as quickly as you can.
Hold our own strategy and world view lightly. Be informed but not rigid.
Stick to our decisions and value strategy as a tool for focus and value-add, not planning.
