The Metrics Café

Because funders’ and implementers’ measurement needs often clash, they wind up with reporting systems that serve neither. This framework explores four models to help them reconcile their needs: prix fixe, a la carte, made-to-order, and bring-your-own-lunch.

-Prix Fixe: All grantees report on the same set of metrics.

-A La Carte: Grantees choose from a menu of standard metrics. 

-Made-to-Order: Funder and grantee work together to come up with a set of metrics.

-Bring your Own Lunch: Grantees come with their own metrics.

The framework presents pros, cons, implications and recommendations for each model. Drawing on cases from Root Capital, Development Innovation Ventures at USAID, Mercy Corps’ Social Venture Fund, and the Autodesk Foundation, this framework can help funders decide what model is right for them.