How frequently should a philanthropy measurement be conducted?
In general, and regardless of the period involved, measurement should be accomplished whenever significant changes have taken place related to your philanthropy programs or the environment in which the activity exists. For example, if your program engaged in a major new initiative or its overall objectives/mission changed, measurements as closely timed as six months could be considered. This “early repeat” of the survey program might be very wise dollars spent, if there exists any concern or worry as to the reception or perception of the new activity or focus. On the other hand, if your program continues to follow a fairly standardized approach, with giving levels similar to what has been given in the past, then measurement less frequently would seem to make sense. In these situations most researchers recommend conducting a repeat measurement process every eighteen months to three years.
