Benefits
Business benefits
Implementing a tech for good programme as part of a CSR and ESG strategy starts with a company’s desire to make an active contribution to the communities in which they operate but the value to company in return can be equally powerful. A strategy and programme that align with the company’s mission and values delivers value in the areas of:
Talent attraction, development and retention - a study published in 2021 by the IBM Institute for Business Value found that over 70% of respondents were more likely to apply for or accept jobs from companies they consider to be socially responsible.
Enhanced brand reputation and trust - Integrating technology-driven initiatives aimed at societal good enhances the company's image - this can build greater trust among consumers, investors, and the public.
Innovation and competitive advantage - implementing tech-driven solutions for social causes can foster innovation within the company. It encourages employees to think creatively, potentially leading to breakthroughs that can be applied to the company’s core business, providing a competitive edge.
Improved Investor Relations - Investors are increasingly considering environmental, social, and governance (ESG) criteria when making decisions. Companies with strong CSR commitments, including tech for good initiatives, may attract more investment and better investment terms.
Market expansion and new business opportunities - CSR initiatives, particularly those that deliver impact at scale through technology, support the need to demonstrate creation of social value to potential customers.
Case Study - AND Digital
Case Study - BJSS
Volunteer benefits
Skilled volunteering is a uniquely rewarding experience for those that take part - the opportunity to use skills that have been developed over many years to develop solutions that enhance the work of organisations tackling social challenges generates immense personal pride and satisfaction. Time after time, skilled volunteers report that they value this very highly and that the opportunity to do this alongside their core responsibilities is something they value highly from their employer. The benefits to volunteers include:
Skill Development and Enhancement: - staff have the opportunity to apply their technical skills in new and challenging contexts, which can support the development of new skills and the enhancement of existing ones.
Increased Job Satisfaction and Morale - skilled volunteers often feel a sense of fulfillment and pride in their work when they know it's contributing to a greater good. This can increase job satisfaction, employee morale, and can even improve performance in their regular job roles.
Improved Collaboration Skills - social impact projects often require teamwork and collaboration, sometimes with people from different backgrounds or with different skill sets. This can enhance the ability of the volunteers to work effectively in diverse teams.
Leadership Development - skilled volunteering can offer leadership opportunities that might not be available in an employee's regular job. Leading a project or a team in a different context can develop leadership skills that are valuable for career advancement.
Corporate Identity and Culture - participating in such programs can enhance volunteers’ sense of belonging and alignment with the organisation's values and culture. This can lead to a stronger identification with the company and its mission.
Case Study - Thomas Gracie
Case Study - Sara Emanuelson and
Alyna Karim
Social impact
Participation in Tech for Good projects offers significant benefits to charities. It provides access to specialised skills and knowledge that may be otherwise unaffordable or inaccessible, allowing charities to leverage technology effectively in achieving their mission. It can help them to improve their reach, their impact and their effectiveness. This increased social impact is supported in a number of ways:
Access to Advanced Technology and Expertise - charities often have limited resources and may lack the technical expertise required to implement advanced technology solutions. Through these projects, they gain access to skilled professionals who can develop and implement sophisticated tech solutions, enhancing the charity's capabilities.
Improved Efficiency and Impact - by implementing tailored technological solutions, charities can streamline their operations, improve data management, and enhance communication. This leads to increased efficiency and a greater impact on their target populations.
Capacity Building and Knowledge Transfer - working alongside skilled volunteers allows charity staff to learn new skills and gain insights into advanced technological tools and practices. This knowledge transfer helps build the long-term technological capacity of the charity.
Innovation and Adaptation - Tech for Good projects can help charities innovate and adapt to changing environments. This could include developing new service delivery methods, improving data analysis for impact assessment, or leveraging digital platforms for fundraising.
Digital Inclusion - Tech for Good projects can help charities bridge the digital divide, especially if they work with underserved communities. They can provide technology access and training, promoting digital literacy and inclusion.