For B Corps, the recertification process is rigorous and time-consuming, especially without consistent impact tracking over the three-year certification period. By proactively preparing and streamlining impact tracking, B Corps can ease the certification process, boost accountability, and showcase a clear, accurate record of their commitments. Here’s how to get ahead of the game:
1. Set Up a Consistent Data Collection Framework
B Corps need a centralised system for collecting impact data across all departments. Establish clear metrics from the start that align with B Corp’s assessment areas, like governance, workers, environment, community, and customers. By having these indicators in place, you’re more likely to maintain consistent and reliable data over time.
Tip: Use digital tools like VOLI Measure to organise and automatically capture impact data, reducing the reliance on manual tracking or scattered records.
2. Integrate Quarterly or Semi-Annual Impact Reviews
Rather than waiting until recertification to assess your impact, schedule regular reviews. Quarterly or semi-annual reviews of social and environmental data help you identify gaps, make adjustments, and ensure ongoing accuracy. These periodic check-ins also allow you to catch any data discrepancies early and make reporting smoother.
Tip: Consider dedicating a team member to oversee impact reviews, so they’re consistently documented and aligned with B Corp standards.
3. Document Both Quantitative and Qualitative Impact
Quantitative data provides measurable evidence, but qualitative stories, such as employee testimonials or case studies, enrich the report by showcasing the personal side of your impact. This mix strengthens your B Corp narrative and makes reporting more meaningful.
Tip: Collect employee and community feedback regularly, creating a pool of stories to draw from during recertification.
4. Establish an Easily Accessible “Single Source of Truth”
Organisations often struggle with fragmented impact data spread across proposals, invoices, and internal platforms. Having a single, centralised platform where all impact-related activities are recorded, such as volunteer hours, pro bono work, and donations, saves time and reduces error.
Tip: VOLI Measure’s centralised reporting can simplify this process, allowing you to log and access all impact data effortlessly. When it’s time for recertification, you’ll have a robust, accessible database that tells your impact story.
5. Automate the Reporting and Benchmarking Process
Automated reporting tools help transform raw data into digestible insights. Many platforms now allow you to pull impact data and automatically generate reports aligned with industry standards. This automation saves countless hours during recertification, ensuring that every contribution is documented and ready to present.
Tip: Use tools like VOLI Measure for real-time reporting and benchmarking against B Corp standards, making it easy to identify where you stand and where improvements might be needed.
6. Ensure Transparency and Accountability with Impact Metrics
Transparency is central to B Corp values. Track metrics that accurately reflect your company’s values and impact initiatives, and make these transparent internally. This clarity not only helps the organisation stay focused on its goals but also builds trust with employees, clients, and the communities you serve.
Tip: Share quarterly summaries of impact data with employees and stakeholders. This approach strengthens collective accountability and ensures everyone understands and aligns with the company's B Corp mission.
7. Conduct a Mock B Corp Assessment One Year Before Recertification
To avoid last-minute surprises, conduct a preliminary B Corp assessment one year before your certification renewal. This exercise gives you a benchmark of your current standing, identifies areas for improvement, and highlights any gaps in your impact tracking.
Tip: Engage cross-departmental teams in the mock assessment to ensure a comprehensive view and commitment from the entire company.
8. Invest in Employee Training on Impact Tracking
Employees are your partners in generating and tracking impact. Provide them with regular training on what metrics need tracking, how to log their contributions, and the significance of their roles in the company’s impact goals. This knowledge empowers them to contribute more meaningfully to the company’s B Corp journey.
Tip: Make impact training part of your onboarding for new employees, so they understand the B Corp mission from day one.
9. Streamline Data with One-Click Reporting
When preparing for recertification, being able to export your data with a single click makes a substantial difference. With VOLI Measure’s one-click export feature, for example, you can generate comprehensive reports quickly, saving you hours of manual work and enabling faster data sharing with the B Corp assessors.
Conclusion
For B Corps, maintaining a clear, consistent record of impact over the three-year certification period ensures a smooth recertification process and reinforces the company’s commitment to purposeful business practices. With the right tools, proactive planning, and regular impact reviews, B Corps can efficiently showcase their contributions to society and confidently renew their status.
