Method
How do we move from outcome to impact? The Gothenburg Way to Legacy method, based on the Theory of Change, spans the time before, during, and after the event. It illustrates the cause-and-effect chain between the identified need, the desired change and the resources and activities used to achieve it. In collaboration with local stakeholders and the participating organisations, we define the vision, goals, and steps needed to create lasting impact.
A systematic approach to creating long-term change
Our method is supported by a strong network of legacy ambassadors from academia, industry, and the public sector, all united by a shared belief in the power of collaboration.
This part of the Gothenburg Way to Legacy framework involves five-step systematic approach in which we work together to identify needs or challenges, the change we want to achieve, the goals we want to set, activities that can contribute towards our goals, and how we will measure the impact.
1. Analysis
We start by identifying how your event can help fill a gap or meet a need in society. This involves defining the long-term effects we want to achieve and ensuring alignment between the event organiser’s vision and the host destination’s goals. Key questions include:
- What need or challenge needs to be met?
- What long-term change are we aiming for?
- Who is the target group and how will they be affected? Who are the stakeholders?
- What resources and conditions are available for the project?
2. Goal setting
In this phase, we determine the short- to medium-term outcomes that will contribute to the desired long-term impact. These outcomes may vary depending on the stakeholder. We define the project’s objectives and the indicators that will be used to measure and evaluate success. Key questions include:
- What immediate outcomes are necessary to achieve the desired long-term change?
- How will we evaluate and measure progress? Who will be responsible for monitoring these indicators?
3. Co-creation
For the impact project to succeed, a temporary working group should be formed, with clear responsibility for planning and executing the project. This group engages relevant stakeholders, ensuring that any activities align with the defined goals, and partners who can contribute with knowledge, resources, or funding. This step includes:
- Identifying stakeholders who can help achieve the goals
- Distributing responsibility for different activities
- Developing a communication plan for sharing progress and results
4. Implementation
Time to execute the activities that will lead to both short- and long-term impact. Planned activities are carried out, progress should be communicated in line with the plan, and key indicators continuously monitored. During this phase, we also encourage new ideas and approaches to ensure the project stays on track and meets its objectives.
5. Evaluation and dissemination
Long-term societal impacts are often difficult to achieve and hard to measure. Also focus on both the immediate and medium-term outcomes of the project, as they contribute to long-term change. This phase includes:
- Using qualitative and quantitative indicators to assess impact
- Sharing the results and telling the story of the project
- Reporting how the project aligns with the Sustainable Development Goals
- Disseminating information about the project and its outcomes to various stakeholders
Successful implementation requires commitment and collaboration
The Gothenburg Way to Legacy method is designed for organisers who:
- Work in areas aligned with the city’s development priorities
- Are committed to creating long-term societal impact
- Are willing to allocate time, resources, and expertise to the project
- Have the necessary resources and funds, if required, to implement the project
- Intend to continue the work beyond the event to ensure lasting impact
Successful implementation depends on broad collaboration, a clear commitment from all parties, and a shared vision for change.
