Power of Feedback

Systematically engaging customers or beneficiaries is the quickest, cheapest way to identify areas for improvement and gives dignity to those you seek to help. Nonprofits and funders—even those hooked on measurement—can do more, and social sector voices are calling for it.

This series, produced for Stanford Social Innovation Review by Milway Media with support from the William and Flora Hewlett Foundation, will explore the power of feedback—including how it can inform strategy and empower others. Starting late September, through February 2019, the series will present commentary from leaders who are improving strategies and services through customer insight in fields as diverse as philanthropy, criminal justice, public health, and technology. It will also feature video and podcast testimony of those listened to, and expert slideshows on how to integrate feedback into measurement systems.

As in the practice of feedback, the series’ richness will come from readers, listeners, and viewers sharing their own stories about customer insight and influence, and their reactions to others’ commentary. We encourage everyone to share at #feedbackempowers.