Operations and Program Management

This strand focuses on designing, implementing, and optimising systems, processes, and resources to ensure efficient operations and the effective delivery of programmes, aligning organisational activities with mission-driven outcomes in the development sector.

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A Typology of Organisations in the Indian Social SectorPaper / Report

2 August 2022

A Typology of Organisations in the Indian Social Sector

The Indian social sector is vast and growing, but existing typologies fail to capture its diversity. Most research focuses on Western economies, where social enterprises differ in structure and demands. To address this gap, we first review existing typologies of social sector enterprises. Then, we propose a hierarchical typology tailored to India, considering multiple characteristics. Finally, we identify key factors for applying this framework. This approach aims to enhance understanding of India’s unique social sector landscape.

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Blog
  • 1 January 1970

How Data Science is Reshaping Health Care

Data science is fundamentally reshaping healthcare by leveraging vast amounts of data to improve patient outcomes and operational efficiency. This article details how data-driven insights enhance diagnostics, personalize treatment plans, and predict disease outbreaks. It highlights the use of machine learning for analyzing medical images, genomics, and electronic health records to identify patterns and inform clinical decisions. Furthermore, data science optimizes hospital operations, manages supply chains, and develops new drugs. These applications lead to more precise medicine, reduced costs, and a proactive approach to public health.
Blog
  • 1 January 1970

How Is Data Science Being Used to Tackle the Global Problem of Clean Water?

This article explores how data science is instrumental in addressing the global clean water crisis. It details how data-driven approaches enable efficient water resource management, including monitoring water quality, detecting leaks in infrastructure, and predicting demand. By analyzing diverse datasets from sensors, satellite imagery, and consumption patterns, data scientists can identify contamination sources, optimize distribution networks, and implement targeted conservation strategies. The insights derived help authorities and organizations make informed decisions, improve water accessibility, and ensure sustainable water supplies for communities worldwide, significantly contributing to public health and environmental well-being.
Blog
  • 1 January 1970

HOW WILL WATER MANAGEMENT LOOK IN 2030 USING DATA ANALYTICS?

This article forecasts the future of water management in 2030, emphasizing the transformative role of data analytics. It predicts a shift towards highly intelligent, interconnected systems that leverage real-time data from sensors and IoT devices for proactive monitoring of water quality, leakage detection, and consumption patterns. Data analytics will enable predictive maintenance for infrastructure, optimize water distribution, and support smart irrigation practices, reducing waste and ensuring sustainable supply. The vision includes AI-powered decision-making tools that enhance resilience against climate change impacts and facilitate equitable water resource allocation globally.
Case Study
  • 1 August 2016

The Utilisation of Social Finance Instruments by the Not-for-profit Sector

This paper examines the utilisation of various social finance instruments by the not-for-profit sector, exploring how these tools can leverage economic, social, and environmental value. It discusses the increasing interest from mainstream investors in “blended value” or “triple bottom line” investing. The report emphasizes the need for a suite of financial tools, new financial intermediaries, and robust measurement metrics to capture the multifaceted impact of such investments and ensure successful implementation within the not-for-profit context.
Case Study
  • 4 January 2012

Standards of Evidence for Impact Investing

This framework by Nesta sets out five levels of evidence to help impact investors assess the effectiveness and credibility of social interventions. Ranging from anecdotal feedback to randomized controlled trials, the standards provide clarity on how different kinds of evidence can be used in funding decisions. The guide promotes accountability, learning, and transparency in impact investing by encouraging organizations to systematically collect and report outcomes. It also helps funders determine proportional evidence requirements based on investment size and risk appetite, fostering a more rigorous and data-informed impact investment ecosystem.
Case Study
  • 3 January 2015

Social Finance for Social Economy

This case study by the International Labour Organization (ILO) focuses on social finance specifically for the social economy. It investigates various sources, tools, and mechanisms of social finance that can support Social Economy Organizations (SEOs). The paper likely explores how these financial instruments can enable SEOs to achieve their social missions, grow their impact, and contribute to sustainable development. It provides insights into tailoring financial solutions to the unique needs of the social economy sector.
Case Study
  • 1 January 2021

Use of Social Impact Bonds in Financing Health Systems Responses to Non-communicable Diseases: Scoping Review

This scoping review examines the application of Social Impact Bonds (SIBs) as a financing mechanism for health systems’ responses to non-communicable diseases (NCDs). It investigates how SIBs are structured to link funding to specific health outcomes, thereby incentivizing effective interventions. The authors analyse the existing literature to understand the promises, challenges, and evidence regarding the effectiveness of SIBs in improving health outcomes for NCDs globally.
Case Study
  • 3 January 2021

Social Finance Annual Report

This case study is the ILO’s Social Finance Annual Report for 2021. It details the organization’s efforts and achievements in promoting financial inclusion, developing insurance mechanisms, strengthening institutions, and fostering market development within the social finance sphere. The report highlights various initiatives aimed at expanding access to financial services for vulnerable populations and supporting sustainable livelihoods. It provides a comprehensive overview of the ILO’s strategic approach and impact in social finance.
Case Study
  • 4 January 2013

Promoting Sustainable Food Systems Through Impact Investing

This report investigates opportunities for impact investing to foster sustainable food systems. It provides an assessment of how impact investing can be strategically deployed to support initiatives that enhance environmental sustainability within the food sector. The Springcreek Foundation, known for its philanthropy and impact investment in sustainable food and agriculture, highlights actionable insights for investors seeking to generate both financial returns and positive environmental outcomes.
Case Study
  • 1 January 2021

Impact Evaluation in Early Stage Impact Investing

This case study examines the challenges and opportunities associated with impact evaluation in early-stage impact investing. It discusses various assessment methodologies and their applicability to nascent ventures seeking to generate both financial and social returns. The paper provides insights into how early-stage investors can effectively measure and demonstrate the impact of their investments, fostering accountability and learning in a rapidly evolving field.
Case Study
  • 3 January 2007

Microfinance for Decent Work: Organization and Responsibilities of the Social Finance Programme (sfp)

This report details the organization and responsibilities of the International Labour Organization’s (ILO) Social Finance Programme (SFP), focusing on its role in promoting decent work through microfinance. Authored by Juan Somavia, it outlines the program’s structure, policy issues addressed, and its efforts to integrate social and labor considerations into financial services for vulnerable populations. The document highlights how microfinance can be a tool for economic empowerment and social development, aligning with the ILO’s mandate for social justice.
Case Study
  • 3 January 2015

Intermediary Perceptions of Investment Readiness in the Uk Social Investment Market

This article explores intermediary perceptions of investment readiness within the UK social investment market. It examines the challenges faced by social enterprises and nonprofits in attracting investment and the role of intermediaries in preparing them for funding. The authors delve into factors influencing investment readiness, such as financial literacy and capacity, and discuss how perceptions of risk and social impact measurement affect investment decisions in the UK’s social finance ecosystem.
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