Methodology for Change the World

How we choose the companies:

The Change the World list recognizes companies that have had a positive social impact through activities that are part of their core business strategy. As we assess nominees, among the factors that matter most are:

1. Measurable social impact

We consider the reach, nature, and durability of the company’s impact on one or more specific societal problems.

2. Business results

We consider the benefit the socially impactful work brings to the company. Profitability and contribution to shareholder value outweigh benefits to the company’s reputation.

3. Degree of innovation

We consider how innovative the company’s effort is relative to that of others in its industry and whether other companies have followed its example or partnered with it.

4. Corporate Integration

We consider how integral the initiative is to a company’s overall strategy, and how well that strategy is communicated through the ranks and elsewhere.

Head writers: Erika Fry and Matt Heimer

Contributors: Danielle Abril, Maria Aspan, Eamon Barrett, Katherine Dunn, Robert Hackett, Jeremy Kahn, Beth Kowitt, Michal Lev-Ram, Rey Mashayekhi, David Z. Morris, Sy Mukherjee, Aaron Pressman, Jen Wieczner, and Claire Zillman