Title
Exploring Complexity: Understanding and Addressing Multifaceted Challenges in Impact Assessment
Abstract
T
This presentation delves into the intricacies of organizational siloing, emphasizing the need for a holistic perspective in comprehending the dynamics of impact. Recognizing that a profound understanding of interconnected phenomena is essential, the presentation advocates for phenomenon-based approach as a response. It underscores the significance of identifying connections and key factors, emphasizing the importance of embracing a multiplicity of voices.
The exploration extends to elucidating the logic behind the emergence of impacts, using the concept of iooi chain (input-output-outcome-impact) and highlighting the interconnectedness with various phenomena. Challenges inherent in impact assessment are scrutinized, revealing the necessity for a collaborative culture, time, willingness, and trust—particularly in navigating the delicate balance between top-down and bottom-up approaches.
In this presentation I use case examples from Finnish government grant authorities. With discretionary government grants authorities aims to make impact in society by funding for example development projects or non-profit organizations. For example, Finnish public libraries can apply grants from Regional State Administrative Agency to develop new services.
Ministry of Finance published in January 2024 guide for government grant authorities on approaches to developing grant activities. There it presents guidelines and principles for how to develop activities to foster knowledge management and impact of grants. In presentation I conclude some main points from guide.
In conclusion, the presentation advocates for a paradigm shift in impact assessment methodologies, emphasizing the integration of diverse perspectives, fostering a collaborative ethos, and acknowledging the temporal and trust-related challenges inherent in the process.
Short cv
Antti Seppänen (M.A. information specialist) is Development Manager at State Treasury of Finland. He is responsible for developing Government Grant Services. He has given lectures for government authorities and libraries about Knowledge Management and Phenomenon Based Development. Formerly he was Senior Advisor at Regional State Administrative Agency of Southern Finland. There he was responsible for developing statistics and national customer survey of public libraries in Finland. He was also responsible for developing Finnish Public Library Project Register.
Seppänen has three times presented a paper at QQML conference 2011 (Libraries does make a difference: Common principles in showing the impact of different types of libraries) and 2017 (Public value and performance of libraries Case: Iso Omena library) and plenary talk 2018 (Evaluating and developing public libraries in national and municipal perspective – Tools used and provided by Regional Administrative Agencies).
His current interest is helping Finnish government grant authorities to develop their processes and services and creating new digital services for applicants and authorities.
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