QLI is a process-focused impact measurement system developed to assess the soundness of an organization’s operations. This differs from conventional results-focused measurement, which tends to prioritize short-term outcomes and can lead to inequitable resource allocation. QLI encourages a culture of wider service provision to a diverse audience, ensuring equity and long-term sustainability.

QLI believes that the delivery of long-term impacts is directly tied to the process-soundness of impact organizations. When an organization achieves a high IOSQ (Impact Organization Service Quality) rating, based on ESG standards introduced by QLI, we are confident it can deliver significant, lasting impacts simply by continuing its work. This contrasts sharply with results-focused measures, which are often short-sighted and problematic.

Example 1: Education. With QLI, schools are assessed based on their IOSQ rating, ensuring that both Type A schools—those serving less talented students—and Type B schools—those serving high-achieving students—can receive funding as long as their processes are solid and sound. This ensures Type A schools remain operational, providing crucial education to lower-performing students. Without QLI, a results-based approach focused solely on students’ grades would prioritize funding for Type B schools, leaving Type A schools without support and potentially forcing them to close. As a result, less talented students would be deprived of access to education, perpetuating inequality.

Example 2: Disabilities. Disability centers often struggle to secure funding under results-based measurement, as they cannot demonstrate measurable improvements such as higher IQ or better physical ability in their candidates. Without QLI, these centers are often overlooked. QLI, however, focuses on process soundness, allowing people to see their true importance. By ensuring their IOSQ rating is strong, disability centers can find funding to continue their vital work, providing stability and relief to families and creating long-term positive impacts for communities.