Thomas Siebel, founder of Siebel Systems, Inc., achieved significant results when he decided to take a stand against methamphetamine ("meth") abuse in Montana a few years ago.  Investing several million dollars in media campaigns, Siebel dramatically improved the state's ranking among U.S. states in terms of meth abuse—moving from 5th to 39th—and more than tripled the percent of Montana teens who are aware of the dangers of meth—shifting that number from 25% to 93%.

Siebel's "Meth Project" is highlighted in an article from the current issue of Stanford Social Innovation Review titled "Catayltic Philanthropy."  The article notes the uniquely collaborative, knowledge-based and results-driven approach that is at the heart of Siebel's investment and the "Meth Project's" success.  Calling for more innovative and proactive donors like Siebel, the article outlines four ways in which catalytic philanthropy differs from traditional philanthrophy.  Catalytic philanthropy:

1. Takes Responsibility for Achieving Results
2. Mobilizes a Campaign for Change
3. Uses All Available Resources
4. Creates Actionable Knowledge

Striking to me was the fact that taking responsibility for results was the first on this list of components to innovative philanthropy.  Mission Measurement advises our clients to adopt an outcomes-based and measurement-driven approach as the lynch pin to effective strategy and execution.  As our clients and the article would attest to, clearly outlining measurable goals and aligning programs, activities and investments around specific results are critical first steps in the pursuit of social impact.