Design, Delivery, and Measurement of ICV Programs

CDS supports our corporate partners by designing International Corporate Volunteerism programs that meet strategic objectives for employee development, emerging markets engagement, and new product and service innovation. CDS works with our partners through the entire lifecycle of a program—from design and planning through measurement and employee reintegration.

Strategic Program Alignment
Though there are basic program elements for every successful ICV program, most are tailored to reflect the corporate client’s business strategy, geographic footprint, HR goals, and core competencies. CDS works to develop objectives and outcomes that best represent your company’s mission, culture, and brand. We design programs with you to advance your strategic goals in areas such as employee development, business expansion, corporate social responsibility objectives, and public relations strategies.

Core Program Design
In the design phase, CDS addresses details such as how to implement and manage the program, which employees are eligible and how many should participate, how long participants should be in the field, and what is an appropriate budget based on strategic objectives. We offer guidance selecting countries and assignments, defining project scopes, and developing employee learning objectives. CDS’ programs are designed to be easily replicated, enabling your company to quickly and effectively expand across borders.

Employee Preparation and Training
Before employees start their field assignments, they typically undergo an extensive virtual orientation and training process. CDS facilitates this pre-work phase by introducing employees to corporate social responsibility, international development, and country-specific social and economic challenges. CDS also coaches employees on techniques relevant to their assignments—best practices in consulting, innovation thinking, and entrepreneurialism/intrapreneurialism—allowing employees to begin meaningful engagements immediately upon arrival in-country. Trainings delivered by CDS and its affiliate organizations can be conducted in-person and/or virtually.

Project and Program Management Support
CDS has offices and staff in countries all over the world, enabling rapid start-up and easy ongoing implementation of ICV programs. At the beginning of each ICV program, CDS local partners/beneficiaries based on the corporate client’s interest and develop scopes of work that match employee skills and experience. We then arrange all logistics for the participants, including travel, accommodation, stipends, and visas, and we monitor the program throughout its duration. With in-house staff dedicated to program and logistical management, CDS ensures programs run smoothly and safely, providing employees with a rich and hassle-free experience.

Post-Project Management Support
Our programs are intended to have continued positive effects post-project, extending the value created by the employees to the company and local partners. Through platforms such as innovation workshops and e-mentoring, CDS’ employee integration models capture information learned and share it with your company. CDS always measures impact—internally regarding staff development and commitment, and externally regarding impact on the local clients and communities—ensuring the most effective return on investment in your ICV program.