The convergence of shifting CSR trends, untapped NGO value, and pressing development challenges holds tremendous potential for driving social impact and business innovation. The question is no longer if companies have a responsibility to society, but how best to execute it. Many companies are stepping up to the call, navigating the competing demands of shareholders to deliver maximum profits in the short-term, and the demands of employees, consumers, and other stakeholders to respond to long-term social issues. Yet others still struggle to deliver cohesive and authentic programs. Instead, they frame their efforts as an obligation, a form of a compliance, or an exercise in public relations or marketing. A more integrated approach has the potential to transform such initiatives into programs that benefit business and society.
Read the full article by Joshua Cramer-Montes (principal of Hyphen Strategies)