ECOnGOOD (Economy for the Common Good) launches the 5.1 version of the Common Good Matrix (CGM), an up-to-date evaluation tool to promote ethical and sustainable practices in organisations.
The Common Good Matrix is a model for organisational development that assesses a wide array of organisational aspects through key indicators that explore the intersection between values (human dignity, solidarity and social justice, environmental sustainability, transparency and co-determination) and stakeholders (suppliers, owners, equity and financial service providers, employees, co-workers, customers, business partners, global community, nature and living beings).
Understanding the Common Good Matrix
What sets the Economy for the Common Good (ECG) model apart from other alternatives is its practical applicability, adaptability and the ability to measure previously intangible concepts such as ethics and sustainability. This methodical flexibility allows for tools at micro, meso, and macroeconomic levels to be tailored to various social, cultural, economic, and legal environments and scores to be comparable. This is crucial in today’s rapidly changing global landscape.
The basic structure of the Matrix remains unchanged: values are shown in columns, while the rows reflect the five stakeholder groups which an organisation has most contact with, creating the 20 Common Good Themes that describe and evaluate an organisation’s contribution to the common good. In turn, each of these themes is broken down into two or more aspects.
The Matrix lies at the heart of the Common Good Balance Sheet, a comprehensive documentation of the Common Good orientation of an organisation. The Common Good Balance Sheet clarifies how each value is lived regarding the respective stakeholder group, what the potential of the theme is, and which areas present an opportunity for growth.
Continuous Improvement for the Common Good
The transition from Matrix 5.0 -used from 2017 to 2024- to the newly launched Matrix 5.1 marks a significant milestone in the evolution of the Common Good Matrix. Notably, Matrix 5.1 is the first version created directly in English, demonstrating the tool’s expanding reach and international appeal. Previous versions were initially developed in German before being translated into English, Spanish, and Italian—a process that highlights the movement’s growth and adaptation to a global audience. For the first time, both the Compact and Full versions are aligned and can be audited by ECOnGOOD auditors. Translations into different language versions are in development.
The 5.1 version brings several important updates and changes aimed at enhancing its effectiveness and coherence. This update reflects the commitment to incorporating stakeholder feedback, fine-tuning the content, enhancing the language, and ensuring a more organised and cohesive structure. Additionally, there was a focus on creating more harmonised levels of evaluation.
Both versions of the Matrix will coexist until the release of the 6.0. This approach ensures that organisations with currently valid Reports using Matrix 5.0 do not face added stress or pressure to immediately update their assessments. However, new organisations and those due for reassessment are encouraged to complete their reports using the new 5.1 version to benefit from its improvements and stay current with the latest standards.
Enhancements in Matrix 5.1
The matrix now features clearer language, streamlined processes, and enhanced inclusivity, with terms like “organisation” replacing “company”. New “verification indicators” and a “report or explain” principle improve transparency and aligns updates with EU regulations.
Additional changes include a new “purpose” theme, expanded topics on environmental sustainability, clearer stakeholder definitions, and a broader approach to diversity and life cycle perspectives, focusing on transparency and coherence with other reporting standards.
Support the Common Good
Companies, non-profits, practicing professionals and other organisations can now utilise the Common Good Balance Sheet with the Matrix 5.1 to align more closely with principles that promote the common good, encouraging continuous improvement in their operations and overall impact.
To ensure a smooth transition to Matrix 5.1, ECOnGOOD consultants and auditors are undergoing comprehensive training programs. These professionals are being equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary to guide organisations through the Balance process using the updated Matrix, enabling them to fully leverage the new features and improvements in their journey towards greater sustainability and ethical practices.
Learn more about Matrix 5.1 or contact bilanz@econgood.org for more information.
Discover the Matrix 5.1 and Workbook (full and compact versions).
Learn more about the Matrix Development Team’s current projects.
