Earlier this month, I had the privilege of speaking to members of the Tiny News Collective about impact metrics—my first official presentation as the founder of LF Voices Collective. It was a milestone moment.
I introduced the DARIA framework—Define, Access, Report, Inform, Automate—a simple yet powerful approach to measuring impact. Much like the 1990s MTV cartoon character Daria’s no-nonsense outlook on life, this framework cuts through the noise and gets to the heart of what matters. It’s not just about tracking clicks or counting followers; it’s about creating meaningful connections and understanding the real-world influence of your work.
For newsrooms and organizations focusing on impact is about asking the right questions: What does success look like? How do we know we’re making a difference? By defining your goals, making data accessible, presenting insights clearly, using metrics to guide (not dictate) strategy, and automating where you can, you create a culture of impact—one where metrics aren’t just numbers but stories that show how your work changes lives.
At LFVC, we believe in helping organizations move beyond vanity metrics to build lasting relationships with their audiences. Whether it’s through consulting, storytelling, or providing tools and resources, we’re here to make sure your story not only reaches people but truly resonates.
If you’re ready to take a more thoughtful, Daria-inspired approach to your audience growth and impact strategy, let’s talk. Because as Daria herself might say, “The more things change, the more they stay the same”—unless you’re measuring, learning, and evolving with purpose.