Challenge
NextSense is a national charity supporting people who are deaf, hard of hearing, blind or have low vision. Their services span early intervention for children, cochlear implant programs, school support, allied therapies and a specialist primary school.
With such diverse programs – and clients entering services at all ages and stages – they needed a clear, consistent way to describe and measure impact. Different delivery models, cultural and language needs, and accessibility considerations added further complexity.
NextSense was looking for a shared framework that could bring everyone onto the same page while still respecting the uniqueness of each service.
Having worked with previous partners who hadn’t successfully engaged the academics, willingness to participate was low.
The goal was to engage a dependable, collaborative PR team to work as a reactive press office that brought Macquarie’s experts back into national conversations.
Solution
We began by reviewing evidence across each program and engaging early with service teams and subject‑matter experts. Their insights helped shape accessible surveys, interviews and focus groups with people with disability, and their families.
From there, we developed a draft impact framework and measurement plan, refining it through multiple rounds of consultation to test feasibility, language, design and implementation across the organisation. Regular engagement with the executive team ensured strong sponsorship and alignment.
The final framework is supported by a clear visual model to help teams understand, communicate and use it in practice.
Outcome
NextSense now has a single, organisation‑wide impact framework and measurement plan that brings clarity and consistency to how impact is defined and measured across all programs.
It provides a strong foundation for strategic decision‑making, supports day‑to‑day service delivery, and strengthens internal and external storytelling.
The charity has a shared language and direction—something staff and leaders see as a significant step forward – and is now well positioned to move into focused measurement and continuous improvement.
