Our current work with the Cultural Development Network involves evaluating against five measurable outcomes of engagement in cultural development activities – cultural, social, economic, environmental and governance. Each of these domains is assessed through surveys, interviews, focus groups, participant observation, expert opinion, and other participatory methods. Our project Parting was case study for Cultural Development Network and their evolving tools and methods for assessing social impact in the arts. We are committed to measuring our impact both internally and through external evaluations, in order to stay relevant and at the cutting-edge of what matters most to communities.

BE uses the five measurable outcomes of engagement in cultural development activities developed by the Cultural Development Network Ltd in partnership with the National Local Government Cultural Forum in Australia.

This schema has been developed to facilitate measurement of outcomes of cultural engagement, including arts participation, across the spectrum from ambient to creative and receptive participation.

The Measurable Outcomes offered by CDN enable us to undertake outcome-focussed planning and evaluate our progress in meeting desired outcomes. This schema values the contributions of cultural engagement, often considered intangible and therefore immeasurable, to be assessed using a systemised approach.

This, in turn, enables us to understand how effective we are being in achieving project objectives, thus contributing to evidence-based practice, which is increasingly required by our partners, including corporate, philanthropy, government and of course, community.