Diak University of Applied Sciences (Diak) has developed an ambitious RDI impact chain and set of metrics that set a new standard for monitoring the results of research, development, and innovation (RDI) activities at higher education institutions. This is an exceptional model in the higher education sector that links individual projects directly to societal change goals.
Traditionally, RDI activities at higher education institutions have been measured in terms of outputs: the number of publications, the number of participants, or the amount of funding awarded. Diak’s new approach shifts the focus from mere outputs to what RDI activities actually achieve in people’s lives and in the structures of society.
From strategy to action
At the heart of the new impact chain lies Diak’s Strategy 2025–2028, whose key objective is to halt the rise in inequality and strengthen social sustainability.
“The model we’ve developed provides a concrete visualization of how grassroots-level project work ties into Diak’s broader strategic goals,” says Anna-Maija Ohlsson, Director of RDI and Impact at Diak.
Diak’s strategic objectives are:
- Equal and unifying
- Impressive expertise
- A socially sustainable society
Data-driven management and standardisation at the core
Diak has developed a metrics repository for its R&D programmes, which allows the outputs and direct impacts of various projects to be tracked using a common framework. This enables the collection and consolidation of data from multiple projects, which is crucial for data-driven management.
“The impact chain helps us understand how changes in well-being ultimately lead to broader structural and societal changes,” says Anna-Maija Ohlsson.
Pilot year 2025: Promising results
The measurement system was piloted during 2025. The projects reported during the pilot reached over 30,000 people. Significant new solutions emerged in areas such as the utilisation of surplus food (Prikkakeskus), workplace coaching (Tsemppi coaching), and the assessment of the life situations of people with specific work abilities (3X10D-Täsmä).
“The new model has significantly improved our internal monitoring of the impact of our work. It also clearly and verifiably demonstrates the importance of Diak’s work in society,” says Ohlsson.
