I came across this
blog today via Alex Swallow and was
fascinated to read about Beth's yin yang approach to the world of Third Sector
data:
I was particularly struck by the yin and yang diagram above and noticed
how much this reflected Operational Research (O.R.) which is the discipline of
applying appropriate analytical methods to help those who run organisations
make better decisions.
The Yin (Technical) is like ‘Hard’ O.R. where the problem is
analytically studied using experimental data, measurement, quantification
and mathematical modelling.
The Yang (Human) is like ‘Soft’ O.R. which employs predominantly
qualitative, rational, interpretative and structured techniques to interpret,
define, and explore various perspectives of the problem.
Beth says 'Effective non-profit measurement and data practice requires a
balance of both the human side and the technical. It is like yin
and yang, because these seeming contrary ideas and skills sets are actually
complementary, interconnected and interdependent.' Similarly in
O.R., by using techniques such as problem structuring methods and mathematical
modelling to analyse complex situations, O.R. gives executives the power to
make more effective decisions based on more complete information.
The OR Society set up the Pro Bono O.R. initiative in September 2013
after recognising that many Third sector organisations needed help in this
area.
If you know of a Third sector (UK based) organisation that would benefit from Pro Bono O.R. help please do get in touch. Similarly if you would like to become a volunteer analyst please drop me an email felicity.mcleister@theorsociety.com or visit: Pro Bono O.R. webpage
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