175. Outputs vs Outcomes: Why Counting Hours Isn’t Enough

In this episode of the Volunteer Nation Podcast, Tobi Johnson dives into why it’s time to move beyond traditional volunteer metrics like hours logged and retention rates. She unpacks the difference between outputs and outcomes, sharing practical examples and actionable strategies for measuring and showcasing the true impact volunteers have on communities and organizations.  

Tobi explains how tracking outcomes can inspire volunteers, improve program quality, strengthen recruitment messaging, guide strategic decisions, and demonstrate real value to stakeholders. You’ll also learn how to create visual graphics to communicate these outcomes! 

Full show notes: 175. Outputs vs Outcomes: Why Counting Hours Isn’t Enough 

Outputs vs Outcomes - Episode Highlights 

• [02:47] - Proving Volunteer Impact 
• [03:37] - Key Metrics to Track 
• [06:14] - The Importance of Outcome Metrics 
• [09:41] - Communicating Impact Effectively 
• [13:58] - Why Volunteer Outcomes Matter 
• [13:58] - Why Volunteer Outcomes Are Essential 
• [18:36] - Communicating Volunteer Impact 
• [22:24] - Improving Program Quality with Outcomes 
• [25:40] - Strengthening Recruitment Messaging 
• [28:42] - Supporting Strategic Decision Making 
• [31:53] - Creating Visual Impact Graphics 

Helpful Links 

• Volunteer Management Progress Report  
• VolunteerPro Impact Lab 
• Volunteer Nation Episode #135: How to Use Video Storytelling to Connect with Aaron Walton and Emmanuel LeGrair  

Thanks for listening to this episode of the Volunteer Nation podcast. If you enjoyed it, please be sure to subscribe, rate, and review so we can reach more people like you who want to improve the impact of their good cause.

For more tips and notes from the show, check us out at TobiJohnson.com. For any comments or questions, email us at WeCare@VolPro.net.