Impactfeasibility

Impactfeasibility, also written as impact feasibility, is the assessment of whether the intended impacts of a program, project, or policy are realistically achievable within given constraints and context. It focuses on the likelihood that desired outcomes can be produced, considering available inputs, operational capacity, and external conditions, rather than merely whether a project is technically possible or cost-effective. Impact feasibility complements technical, economic, and logistical feasibility by centering on effect realization and sustainability over time.

Assessment typically examines the impact pathway from inputs to short-term outputs, intermediate outcomes, and ultimate impacts; evaluates the strength of evidence for each link; and identifies gaps, uncertainties, and critical assumptions. It considers factors such as data availability, monitoring and evaluation capacity, stakeholder acceptance, political will, funding stability, organizational capability, and potential unintended consequences, including equity and ethical considerations. It also assesses geographic, cultural, and regulatory contexts that may influence uptake and scalability.

Methodologies include mapping the theory of change, reviewing relevant data and evidence, conducting pilot tests or phased rollouts, scenario planning, and sensitivity analysis. Decision-makers may translate findings into go/no-go criteria, risk registers, and resource allocations, or use impact feasibility alongside other feasibility studies to prioritize investments and design adaptive implementation plans.

Applications span development aid, public health, environmental policy, corporate social responsibility, and philanthropic grantmaking. A strong impact feasibility assessment supports more informed decisions by clarifying which impacts are realistically attainable and under what conditions, while highlighting uncertainties and the need for monitoring and learning.

Limitations include reliance on imperfect data, changing contexts, and the challenge of predicting social outcomes. As with other evaluative tools, impact feasibility is most effective when integrated with ongoing monitoring, iterative design, and transparent discussion of assumptions.