Social Value Associate frequently asked questions

If your question is not answered here, please reach out to our Executive Officer, Laura Glynn at laura@simna.com.au.

Why should I become a Social Value Associate?

The Social Value Associate accredits your knowledge and skills in impact measurement and management in line with international best practice. Social Value International is a globally recognised leader in this field with established partnerships with the Impact Management Project, UNDP, OECD, Capitals Coalition, and World Business Council for Sustainable Development, amongst others.  

This qualification is ideal for anyone who needs to consider a broader definition of value in their work, one that encompasses social and environmental value, not solely economic value. These individuals can be broadly categorised into two groups: those who prepare accounts of value (people engaged in measurement) and those who utilise those accounts (people making management decisions). This qualification is designed for both groups.  

For practitioners whose regular tasks involve measurement, data collection, and report writing, achieving Level 1 serves as the initial step. It is strongly recommended that they continue to progress to Level 2 and Level 3 practitioner statuses after obtaining Level 1. These advanced levels more thoroughly assess the technical knowledge required and the practical application of the principles when preparing an account of value.

SVI also acknowledges that frequently, decision-makers are not the people preparing accounts of value. These decision-makers use ‘accounts of value’ to inform their decisions, based on a broader definition of value. Level 1 status equips these individuals with sufficient knowledge about the SVI framework and its advantages, enabling them to advocate for the application of these principles. The subsequent practitioner levels (Level 2 and Level 3) may not be relevant for these decision-makers.

What does the online exam test? 

The exam assesses individuals for their theoretical understanding and knowledge of Social Value International’s framework for accounting for value, specifically the Principles of Social Value. Successfully passing the exam demonstrates the individual’s grasp of the urgency underpinning the social value movement and the basic propositions that form the basis of SVI’s framework of accountability and maximising value.

Primarily, the exam is designed to test individuals’ clear understanding of SVI’s key concepts, the Principles of Social Value and the SVI Framework. It also evaluates and recognises an individual’s alignment with our shared philosophy or ‘mindset,’ which is necessary to transform the way the world approaches the preparation of accounts of value, and the use of these accounts to make decisions that address inequality and promote the wellbeing of people and the planet. Although there are some questions that assess technical knowledge and competence in preparing an account of value, this is not the primary focus of the exam.

The Level 1 Associate Status is less about testing technical competence and more about testing whether individuals ‘get it’, whether they understand what the principles are designed to do

Ben Carpenter, CEO, Social Value International

In addition to passing this exam, all applicants must sign a commitment to good practice. This commitment is similar to an oath or ethical pledge commonly used in other professions. Signing this demonstrates the individual’s commitment to implement the SVI framework in their professional practice, whether it involves preparing accounts of value or using them. 

What is the structure of the exam and what types of questions are asked?

The exam is split into six sections, mirroring the modules of the popular Social Value and SROI Practitioner Training (accredited by SVI).  

• Section 1 – Key concepts and purpose of the SVI Framework
• Section 2 – Identifying stakeholders and outcomes (Principles 1, 2 and 4)
• Section 3 – Measuring the amount of change (Principles 2 and 4)
• Section 4 – Valuing changes to outcomes (Principle 3)
• Section 5 – From outcomes to impact, how to avoid over-claiming (Principle 5)
• Section 6 – Reporting and embedding social value into decision making (Principle 6 and 7)

These sections also align with the stages of conducting an SROI and mirror a typical ‘impact management cycle.’ Therefore, they can be viewed as a sequential and practical approach to applying the principles. As each principle is raised, the exam includes the following types of questions: 

• What is the purpose of this principle? What does it do? (Testing that applicants understand the reason it exists and can link it back the basic propositions underpinning the SVI Framework)
• Definition of some key terms (testing some basic technical understanding)
• What does the application of this principle look like in practice? (Testing some technical and practical understanding of the principle) 

Social Value Associate status does not require applicants to make any calculations. All questions are either multiple choice, true/false or ‘fill in the gaps’. One point is allocated for each question. 

What mark do I need to get to pass the exam?

A pass mark of at least 70% is required in each section.  

The questions on the exam are a combination, with 80% of the marks assessing the overall understanding of the principles and SVI propositions, while the remaining 20% of the marks are earned by answering more technical questions related to the application of the principles. The exam has a time limit of 90 minutes.

Do I need to attend Accredited Training before sitting the exam?

Different people learn in different ways, which is why we offer two routes to achieving your Social Value Associate status.  

If you feel that you would benefit from attending a course to help you develop and expand your knowledge, then the Accredited Social Value Training programs, available in either in a classroom or online format, can help prepare you for the exam.  

If, however, you already have the appropriate social value and impact management knowledge, the direct route allows you to register for the exam without any formal accredited training.  

It is important to note that if you intend to advance through the Social Value International Professional Pathway, attendance at an SVI Accredited Training is a prerequisite for achieving Level 2 or Level 3.

How do I prepare for the exam? 

To become a Social Value Associate, it is expected that you will have a well-developed theoretical understanding of social value, impact management and the SVI Framework for accounting for value, guided by the Social Value Principles.  

To develop this understanding, you can: 

• Participate in an accredited training program
• Work through the SVI E-Learning Zone  
• Revise using the SVI Standards and Guidance
• Read and work through the SVI Social Value and Impact Management Exam Details and Reading list

How does my status as a Social Value Associate last?

Your status as a Social Value Associate is valid for two years.  

To apply for a renewal of SVI Practitioner status, applicants are required to hold a current membership with Social Value International or one of its joint member networks (e.g. SIMNA for those based in Australia) prior to submitting their renewal application.

The applicant must provide a document (no longer than one A4 page) outlining their continued work and progress in social value.  

Are there any opportunities for career progression?

Yes! This internationally recognised qualification not only demonstrates your knowledge and skills in social value and impact management to current and prospective employers, but also opens up additional opportunities for progression developed by SVI within our Professional Pathway.

Upon being awarded your Social Value Associate Status, you can progress to become a Level 2 Accredited Practitioner or Level 3 Advanced Practitioner. Moreover, you will qualify to deliver short courses on Social Value, Impact Management, or SROI that are accredited by SVI.

Additionally, SVI frequently sends exclusive opportunities to our pool of Associates and Accredited Practitioners, granting you access that may otherwise be unavailable.

Do Social Value International offer any support of benefits to Social Value Associates?

Social Value International extends guidance and support to all Social Value Associates, providing exclusive access to SVI events and networking opportunities. Their global team is readily available to assist you throughout your professional journey.

Additionally, you will be included in the SVI members’ area Practitioner Group and will be searchable in the SVI directory.