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Principle 3: Evidence and Engagement
What information do we need, and how do we gather it responsibly?
Information should be used to understand both the issue a decision is intended to address and its potential impacts on people, communities, and the environment. The level of information gathered should be proportionate to the importance of the decision.
3.1 Quantitative and Qualitative Evidence
Decisions should be informed by both quantitative and qualitative information. Data and metrics can provide valuable insights, but they should be complemented by engagement, dialogue, research, and local knowledge. The experiences and perspectives of those most likely to be affected by a decision should be considered wherever possible.
3.2 Stakeholder Engagement and Dialogue
Engagement should begin early and should inform what information is gathered and how it is interpreted. Seek to understand the views and experiences of suppliers, workers, communities, and other relevant stakeholders before relying solely on secondary data, assumptions, models, or formal requests for information. Information should be gathered fairly, ethically, and transparently, with stakeholders understanding how information provided may be used.
3.3 Objectivity and Context
Information should be used objectively and in context. Avoid selectively using data or evidence to support a predetermined position. Where impacts are described as positive or negative, it should be clear what they are being compared against, how conclusions have been reached, and what methods, assumptions, and sources have been used.
3.4 Data Quality and Uncertainty
The quality, reliability and uncertainty of information should be considered. Decisions should not rely disproportionately on data, methodologies or assumptions that are highly uncertain, contested or difficult to verify. Data, methodologies and assumptions developed in one context should not be applied elsewhere without considering whether they accurately reflect local conditions, particularly in developing-country contexts where data availability, production systems and local circumstances may differ significantly. Where significant uncertainty exists, this should be recognised and communicated transparently.
3.5 Proportionate and Responsible Information Requests
Requests for information should be reasonable and proportionate and should avoid placing unnecessary costs or administrative burdens on suppliers and other stakeholders. Organisations should seek to avoid duplicative requests, make effective use of existing information, and be transparent about how information collected will be used.