Social impact assessment and (realist) evaluation: meeting of the methods
C. Nicholas Taylor, Michael Mackay & Harvey C. Perkins
Abstract – Tuhinga Whakarāpopoto
In this paper, the researchers examine the interlinkages between social impact assessment and evaluation and, in particular, realist evaluation. They draw on recent research in the South Island, in which they link social impact assessment and elements of realist evaluation in the study of rural and small-town regeneration. The research identifies connections and makes suggestions regarding methods in social impact assessment and evaluation. They conclude by urging social impact assessment practitioners to use mixed methods, with a stronger emphasis on qualitative approaches, and especially to work with communities in an iterative way towards a conceptual basis for assessing and managing change and enhancing social wellbeing.
Other reports associated with this research
Taylor, C. N. & Mackay, M. (2022). Social Impact Assessment: Guidelines for thriving regions and communities. Building Better Homes, Towns and Cities. Wellington: BBHTC.
Articles associated with this research – Karere Tūhono
News: Social Impact Assessment: Guidelines for thriving regions and communities
25 July 2022: Regional communities are experiencing social impacts from economic regeneration projects, including tourism infrastructure development, heritage conservation, irrigation and new land uses, and housing, but how are these impacts measured? Building Better researchers Dr Nick Taylor, from Nick Taylor and Associates, and Dr Mike Mackay, from AgResearch, have recently published a comprehensive practical guideline to Social Impact Assessment (SIA) to help councils and community groups learn the basics about how to conduct an SIA, contribute to an SIA, use the results of an SIA, and judge if an SIA is fit for purpose. >> Read More
Keywords – Kupu Hāngai
Social impact; community engagement; community; impact assessment; social wellbeing; South Island; Te Waipounamu
Fields of Research – Āpure Rangahau
Social impact assessment; Regional development; Rural community development; Community planning; Built environment and design; Community engagement
Date – Te Wā Whakarewa
2021-06
Type – Te Auaha
Journal paper
Collections – Kohinga Kaupapa
Citation – Kupu Hautoa
Taylor, N., Mackay, M. & Perkins, H. (2021). Social impact assessment and (realist) evaluation: meeting of the methods. Impact Assessment and Project Appraisal, 39:6, 450-462, DOI: 10.1080/14615517.2021.1928425
