Case studies in CSR: How to move from gloss to strategy

Abstract

Purpose

Looks at the CSR efforts of a variety of organizations in order to illustrate which approaches are the most effective for both the business and wider society.

Design/methodology/approach

This briefing is prepared by an independent writer who adds their own impartial comments.

Findings

Whether you like it or not, if you run a company of considerable size there is little chance that you have managed to avoid the issue of corporate social responsibility (CSR). Executives are increasingly aware that they are expected to offer some sort of benefit to the wider world: newspaper articles, academic papers, the activities of their peers and the public all tell them so. Many now worry that if their company is not seen to be making environmentally and morally aware social contributions as part of their day to day operations then they will lose their customers and risk their reputations. But recognising the demand and fulfilling it are two different things.

Practical implications

Research into a wider variety of industries and a future reassessment of how current CSR initiatives have performed would further increase knowledge and guideless for success in this area.

Originality/value

Offers advice and illustrative examples on CSR policy that will be useful to any company considering its own approach.

Citation

(2008), "Case studies in CSR: How to move from gloss to strategy", Strategic Direction, Vol. 24 No. 1, pp. 12-14. https://doi.org/10.1108/02580540810839287