Benchmarking responsible management and non-financial reporting

Abstract

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to present a model, which assesses the wide range of data offered in non-financial reports, and enables benchmarking of these data between different organizations.Design/methodology/approachThis work uses aspects of fuzzy logic and qualitative comparative analysis to build fuzzy sets, which form the basis of the benchmarking tool.FindingsThe model presented permits the identification of both negative and positive aspects of an organization’s CSR actions, and shows where improvements can be made by highlighting the standards reached by others.Originality/valueThe model offers a benchmarking tool that allows analysis of non-financial reporting, something missing from the field of CSR until now. Additionally, it offers a new approach where data sets are constructed to measure environmental/social impact in function of each unit of economic value generated. This approach aligns social/environmental and economic performance, thereby emphasizing the interconnectivity of a company’s financial, social and environmental bottom lines.