The ECCSR Framework

The ECCSR Framework was developed by Joe Houghton, a project management lecturer at UCD Michael Smurfit Graduate Business School. It is a simple but powerful checklist for any project and it makes sure your project is not just delivered, but delivered well.

ECCSR stands for: Ethical, Creating Collaboration, Sustainable, Results.

Before or during any project, ask yourself these five questions. They will help you make sure your project stands up to scrutiny and delivers real value - not just on paper, but in practice.

(Houghton, 2022)

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E - Ethical

Are you running this project honestly and fairly? Be transparent with funders, treat staff and volunteers with respect, and make decisions that would hold up to public scrutiny.

C - Creating

Great projects create real value for your organisation, your clients and your community. Think creatively about your approach, your tools and your solutions. Don't just do what was always done before.

C - Collaboration

The best projects are done with people, not to them. Involve your team, clients and community from the very start, not just at the end when all the decisions are already made.

S - Sustainability

Will this project last? Build something that delivers real value after it ends, without burning out your team or budget. Many Irish funders like Pobal now expect alignment with the UN Sustainable Development Goals

R - Results

Define what success looks like before you start. Set clear measurable goals and review them honestly when the project ends, what worked, what didn't, and what you'd do differently next time.