Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), also known as Corporate Citizenship is concerning the role of the Corporation in society and the effect of its business activities on society and the environment. Companies want to have focus to make the best use of the resources available to them, their approach to CSR should be closely aligned to the overall business goals and strategy – this in turn supports the long term business prospects of the company.

CSR strategy focuses on these key areas: ethical Governance; Employees; Philanthropy; Supply Chain Management; Customers and the Environment in which it works. Business has a critical impact on our communities in terms of creating jobs, taxes and revenue for suppliers, as well as producing the goods and services we use every day. CSR is the corporate attempt at reviewing its conscience in regard to its impact, positive or negative. If negative, then take action to redress the balance.

You could be cynical and say that these are just marketing or promotion gambits on the part of large companies and it cannot be denied that to be seen as “Good Company” is good for the Company. If NGOs work with interested companies, the social benefits can be truly meaningful to the community.

Like any other Corporate initiative - CSR strategy should be measured and impact from the Company and the community will be clear for stakeholders internally and externally. Measurement can run from simply looking at positive media mentions to direct impact on the community or environment - reduced emmissions or improvement in particular services in a local community.