Indicators as a tool to help create sustainable communities: A study of the outcomes of five community indicators projects

Indicators have become one of the primary tools of the sustainable communities movement and other related community movements that have emerged in the 1990s. While a great deal of resources are being invested in indicators projects, very little has been reported about the outcomes being achieved. This study examined five case studies through a series of 31 structured interviews to explore the outcomes being achieved with indicators and the factors affecting them. Most outcomes found through the study were of the “intangible” variety, such as increased social capital and raised awareness. In a few instances, the indicators influenced decisions, but in virtually no instances did the indicators lead to measurable change or progress toward sustainability, as measured by the indicators. Multiple key factors were identified that can help indicators programs achieve their goals. Of particular importance are the need for better outreach and links to action.