Assessment Tools

Nonprofit leaders can gauge their organization’s effectiveness and identify areas for improvement by completing a self-assessment.  There are many excellent self-assessment tools available for free over the web, including those described below.

McKinsey Capacity Assessment Grid
Recommended for medium to large nonprofits
This tool has been described as “a very comprehensive grid…the granddaddy of them all.”  Developed by McKinsey & Company, a national consulting firm, it appears on several foundation websites.  Although it appears imposing, the accompanying instructions are clear and speed completion.

The Marguerite Casey Foundation Organizational Capacity Assessment Tool
Recommended for medium to large nonprofits
This tool is shorter and simpler than the McKinsey tool. A useful diagnostic, it helps nonprofits identify strengths and challenges and establish capacity-building goals.

United Way of Minneapolis Area Nonprofit Indicator
Recommended for small to medium nonprofits
This extensive checklist developed by Authenticity Consulting LLC can assess an organization’s board, legal, human resources, volunteer management, planning, finances, and fundraising capacity.  The Indicator can be completed online.

TACS Nonprofit Organization Self- Assessment Tool
TACS Nonprofit Financial Management Self-Assessment Tool
Recommended for small to medium nonprofits
Technical Assistance for Community Services, a nonprofit support group in Portland Oregon, has developed these two assessment tools.  The TACS website provides other useful information.

Find out more about other assessment tools or get help using them by contacting the Initiative at (401) 274-4564.