Activity vs. Impact

Last month, at the 9th annual Honors Award ceremony, we recognized ERGs and Councils that had measurable impact on their organization that achieved business results. While celebrating the impressive work of the Top 25 ERGs and Councils, it became clear that there is a huge difference between activities and impact.
So what is the difference between activity and impact, and how does one distinguish between the two?

Activity is defined as "energetic action or movement." Collins English dictionary describes activity as "any specific deed, action, pursuit, etc., including recreational activities". It is possible, therefore, for one to be busy engaging in a lot of activities, but not really making a difference. Activity isn't bad in and of itself; but when activity is not directed towards purpose, we aren't as great as we could be. Many times, ERGs and Councils fall into the “more activity is better” rut, thinking the more activities we do the more successful we will be. That is why Pride Parades, Cancer walks, Cinco de Mayo parties and an endless parade of lunch speakers often makes up the bulk of ERG activities. All good, busy work but not a lot of business impact.

Purpose is the definitive link between meaningful activity and impact. This is the single most important factor in your ERG or Council’s ability to lead. Purpose is what makes you distinct, but it is also the motivation behind what you do. If you are going to make an impact on your organization, your purpose must be aligned with your activities. And your activities must be aligned with the organization's business goals.

Activity is powerful when it is coupled with purpose and impact. According to BusinessDictionary.com, impact is a "measure of the tangible and intangible effects (consequences) of one's action or influence upon another." By inference, impact denotes planning, analysis, and outcomes. Hence, impact can be ascertained by asking three (3) simple questions:
• Is there a specific business purpose?
• What will be the outcome of my effort?
• How will the business/organization benefit?

Of course, impact can either be positive or negative. Keep in mind, it’s easier for folks to remember the negative impacts instead of the positive. That is why we must ensure our focus is directed toward the organization’s benefits in terms of:
• Knowledge gained and how that knowledge is applied to the business.
• Behavior or attitude changes.
• Practice or situation changes.
• Results of those behavior, attitude, practice or situation changes.

There is nothing wrong with activities, unless they are not paired with purpose. If you ask yourself these questions and use this checklist as you are planning your group’s activities, you will be more likely to have an impact on your organization that will have lasting value and provide your group with the business credibility it needs to succeed.