Results-Based Accountability (RBA), also known as Outcomes-Based Accountability, is a data-driven decision-making framework that aims to improve the performance of services, programs, and communities. It was conceived and developed by Mark Friedman, a renowned social policy analyst and author, to measure the performance of services within the public and nonprofit sectors. His book, “Trying Hard Is Not Good Enough,” is often cited as the foundational text on the subject, where he provides a detailed explanation of this methodology. The framework focuses on outcomes and results as key indicators of success, rather than merely looking at the inputs or activities undertaken. One of the key features of the RBA framework is its ability to shift focus from discussions to action swiftly. It emphasizes starting with the desired outcomes and tracing back to the means necessary to achieve these outcomes. This method follows a simple and intuitive process. Collaboration and consensus-building among stakeholders is instrumental to the successful application of the framework. The RBA framework serves as a powerful decision-making tool that assists government agencies, non-profits, communities, and foundations in creating a significant, long-lasting, and measurable impact on the lives of children, families, and communities globally. Furthermore, the performance of various programs and services offered by organizations can be improved through the application of the RBA framework. 1

Approach to RBA

The RBA approach consists of three main steps:

  1. Identify Desired Outcomes: The first step involves clearly defining the desired results or outcomes. These could be broad goals for a community (like improved health or better education) or specific goals for a service or program.
  2. Indicators and Performance Measures: The next step is to identify measurable indicators that track progress towards these outcomes. These could include qualitative or quantitative measures, but they must be linked directly to the outcome in a way that allows for clear tracking of progress.
  3. Action Planning: The final step in the RBA process involves developing and implementing strategies to achieve the desired outcomes. This may include identifying best practices, leveraging existing resources, and developing new initiatives or services as needed.

Pros of RBA

  1. Focus on Outcomes: RBA’s clear focus on results, rather than inputs or activities, encourages organizations to think more strategically about how they can truly make a difference.
  2. Data-Driven Decision Making: By requiring clear, measurable indicators of success, RBA encourages the use of data in decision-making processes. This can lead to more effective and efficient services and programs.
  3. Transparency and Accountability: The RBA framework increases transparency and accountability by clearly articulating goals and tracking progress towards them.

Cons of RBA

  1. Difficulty in Measurement: One of the biggest challenges of RBA is finding meaningful and measurable indicators for complex social outcomes.
  2. Short-term Focus: RBA can sometimes lead to a short-term focus, as organizations seek to demonstrate progress on their indicators. This can sometimes detract from longer-term goals.
  3. Resource Intensive: Implementing RBA can be resource-intensive, requiring significant time and effort to develop clear outcomes, identify appropriate indicators, and monitor progress.

Resources for Learning More About RBA

Clear Impact. (2022). What is Results-Based Accountability? [Website]. Retrieved February 23, 2022, from https://clearimpact.com/results-based-accountability

Epps, D. (2019). Achieving “Collective Impact” with Results-Based Accountability™. https://communityengagement.uncg.edu/wp-content/uploads/2014/08/Achieving-%e2%80%9cCollective-Impact%e2%80%9d-with-Results-Based-Accountability.pdf

Friedman, M. (2005). Trying Hard Is Not Good Enough: How to Produce Measurable Improvements for Customers and Communities. Wiley.

Laural, R. (2020). Frameworks for Community Impact – Community Case Study. Frontiers in Public Health, 8. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpubh.2020.00197  

Wilder, J., Amoa, M., Nelson, R., & Bertrand-Jones, T. (2019). Accountability Matters: Addressing Racial Inequity With Results-Based Accountability (RBA). Race and Justice, 9(1), 3-7. https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/pdf/10.1177/2153368718809835