When evaluating complex, relational work, a "coherence gap" often emerges: organizations understand the importance of relational work in systems change work, but rely on linear tools and approaches for their evaluation.

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Our open-source methodology for Credible Claims in Complexity closes this gap. It provides a structured 4-layer approach to harmonize your entire measurement strategy, ensuring every step—from your underlying principles to your final report—is methodologically coherent.

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The methodology guides you through:

• Layer 1 - Paradigm & Principles: Living into a regenerative paradigm, grounded in a commitment to equity and a strong justice orientation.
• Layer 2 - Frameworks & Evaluation Design: Building living systems maps (such as the Impact Garden) to track the context, resources, and relationships that actually sustain change alongside your standard indicators.
• Layer 3 - Methods & Analytical Approaches: Meaningfully integrating quantitative and qualitative data to capture essential relational dynamics (using tools like the Capacity Compass).‍
• Layer 4 - Credible Claims and Narratives: Weaving these diverse data points into a cohesive whole that serves two distinct purposes: generating defensible "Credible Claims" for external funders, and providing evidence-backed, strategic advice for internal leadership.

• Evaluation Strategy & Redesign: Building a methodologically coherent measurement architecture that spans from your organizational paradigm down to your daily data collection.
• Funder Reporting & Accountability: Structuring your qualitative and quantitative data into rigorous evidence that satisfies board and funder requirements.
• Internal Strategic Foresight: Translating complex evaluation findings into actionable, systemic advice for executive leadership and program managers.‍
• Fostering a Justice-Oriented MEL Culture: Embedding reflective practices and equity considerations directly into how your team defines and measures "success."