Assessment Methodology
How UNIGO assesses business practices
UNIGO uses one framework to assess organisations across five impact areas and five evidence stages. Indicators vary by sector so the assessment remains relevant to each type of business.
Why this framework exists
Impact claims can be difficult to compare. UNIGO presents evidence and scoring in a consistent format so travelers and partners can understand what supports each result.
The five assessment areas
These areas provide a stable structure for comparing business practices across the platform.
Carbon Reduction
Gender Equality
LGBTQ+ Inclusion
Local Economy
Community Impact
The five evidence stages
Each area is reviewed through the same five stages: commitment, implementation, evidence, results and continuous improvement.
1. Commitment
Formal commitment to this impact area — mission, policy, leadership commitment, public statements, internal commitments.
Score 0–5
2. Implementation
Actions actually being taken — operational practices, employee training, projects, programs, procedures.
Score 0–5
3. Evidence
Ability to verify claims — certifications, reports, documents, photos, third-party verification, public disclosures.
Score 0–5
4. Results
Measurable outcomes rather than intentions — CO2 reduced, local spending, diversity improvement, community benefit, measured impact.
Score 0–5
5. Continuous Improvement
Ongoing improvement — annual goals, progress tracking, new initiatives, innovation, future plans.
Score 0–5
How scores are calculated
- Each pillar receives a score between 0 and 5.
- Each dimension's pillar total reaches a maximum of 25 (5 pillars × 5).
- Every dimension is normalized to a score out of 100: (pillar total / 25) × 100.
- The Business Impact Score aggregates the five normalized dimension scores as their average, also out of 100.
- The scoring methodology is identical across all five dimensions.
| Scale | Meaning |
|---|---|
| 0/5 | NoneNo evidence of this pillar. |
| 1/5 | MinimalEmerging, informal or inconsistent. |
| 2/5 | DevelopingPresent and forming, not yet systematic. |
| 3/5 | EstablishedSystematic and consistently applied. |
| 4/5 | StrongMature practice with clear support. |
| 5/5 | ExemplaryMeasured, verified and improving. |
How the framework works across sectors
The evidence stages remain consistent while sector-specific indicators provide context. A hotel and a manufacturer may report different results, but both must show how those results were achieved and supported.
A consistent framework
The core structure stays consistent so results remain understandable over time. Sector indicators can be refined as evidence, standards and user needs develop.
Questions about the RCAB methodology or Impact Score? Email impact@unigo.now.