The Cooperative Sustainability Tool is a comprehensive management tool designed to assess the social performance of cooperatives. It compiles both quantitative and qualitative data on the cooperative’s fulfillment of its social responsibility, while also evaluating its economic and financial performance over a defined period. Additionally, it supports the monitoring of areas for improvement based on cooperative principles.
• Make visible the quantitative and qualitative results of cooperative social responsibility actions. • Ensure accountability regarding compliance with cooperative principles. • Integrate improvement plans and best practices related to the cooperative's social performance.
1. Validation of indicators and their application. 2. Data collection from internal sources. 3. Calculation of indicators based on international standards. 4. Analysis of results, presented through a traffic-light system (Green: Satisfactory, Yellow: Needs Improvement, Red: Insufficient). 5. Drafting of a final report and development of action plans.
The tool evaluates a portfolio indicators based on international standards, adapted to the realities of various countries and sectors. These indicators are grouped into two main dimensions:
o Voluntary and open membership o Democratic member control o Member economic participation o Autonomy and independence o Education, training, and information o Cooperation among cooperatives o Concern for community
o Internal public (human talent) o Institutional management
• Each indicator is scored using pre-established benchmarks. • Results can compare one or two periods, highlighting trends over time. • Traffic-light visualizations help stakeholders quickly assess areas of success or those needing attention.
• Final evaluation report. • Comprehensive action plan addressing areas for improvement. • Accountability to cooperative members and stakeholders regarding the cooperative’s social impact.