Determining the Strategic Value of Applied Analytics in Mission-Driven Organizations

Abstract

Analytics is having a moment socially and organizationally. The promise of analytics in terms of insights and efficiencies is alluring. Making rational investments in this capability requires determining its value. Such a determination, while never easy, is simplified when profit can be the metric of focus. This enables businesses to make this investment like they typically do. The situation is more complex for mission-driven organizations, that can be either for-profit or nonprofit. Without a focus on profit, mission-driven organizations benefit from assessing the value of analytics more holistically. In the process, synergy, solidarity, and efficacy emerge as points to consider when determining the strategic value of analytics.