Poverty is a complex and multifaceted issue, and measuring it accurately is crucial in order to effectively address it. The Multidimensional Poverty Index (MDPI) is a powerful tool that is used to measure different types of poverty. Originally designed by the Oxford Poverty and Human Development Initiative (OPHI), the index has been adapted for use in the South African context by the MOPSY Group. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the MDPI, how it works, and why conducting a survey using this methodology can be beneficial for your organisation.
What is the Multidimensional Poverty Index?
The MDPI is a measure of poverty that considers a range of different factors that contribute to deprivation. It considers levels of deprivation in the following areas: health, education, living standards, employment, security, and income. Using statistically backed weighing systems, the index provides a holistic understanding of where poverty vulnerability lies within a given sample group.
How does the MOPSY Group MDPI survey work?
Our MDPI survey has been designed to be easy to administer online, making it a practical tool for use by large groups. The survey does not require “write-in answers,” which helps to ensure a uniform data set is produced. Once the data is collected, a report is generated that provides an overview of the company’s MDPI score (out of 100), employment security score, and income poverty score. Respondents are then divided into three categories: deprived (0-33), vulnerable (34-66), and secure (67-100).
Reporting and recommendations
The MOPSY Group adheres to a global standard of reporting, ensuring that the data presented is robust and statistically rigorous. Our survey is rooted in thoroughly researched and statistically proven methodology adapted to fit the South African context. We produce two reports: a summary report that provides a broad overview and a fully detailed report that breaks down each area, including demographic information and detailed write-ups of each indicator in relation to the company.
The survey results provide employers with a detailed breakdown of their employees’ well-being, including demographic information that can assist with sustainability reporting. The information provided further allows employers to maximise the impact of any existing programs and the broader employee value proposition by addressing areas of critical concern. From these results, employers are able to better understand how their employees’ scores compare to South African and global poverty levels. Community stakeholders are also empowered to deploy resources into initiatives that will deliver the most meaningful impact within surrounding communities.
Why conducting a survey using the MDPI is beneficial to your organisation
Conducting a survey using the MDPI methodology is beneficial to your organisation in several ways. Firstly, it provides a comprehensive understanding of poverty within a given sample group, which can inform the design of poverty reduction initiatives. Secondly, it allows employers to understand how their employees’ scores compare to South African and global poverty levels, which can help inform their overall employee value proposition. Finally, it allows community stakeholders to deploy resources into initiatives that will deliver the most meaningful impact within surrounding communities.
It is evident that the MDPI is a powerful tool that can provide a comprehensive understanding of poverty within a given sample group. Our adaptation of the survey for use in the South African context makes it a practical tool for use by large groups. The survey results provide employers with a detailed breakdown of their employees’ well-being, allowing them to maximise the impact of any existing programs and the broader employee value proposition by addressing areas of critical concern. Conducting a survey using the MDPI methodology is an important step towards poverty reduction and a more equitable society.
If you’re an employer in South Africa, we encourage you to consider conducting the Multidimensional Poverty Index survey for your organisation. By doing so, you’ll not only gain a better understanding of your employees’ well-being but also contribute towards the greater good of society.
Contact us today to learn more about how we can help you conduct the survey and interpret the desired results. Alternatively, click here to subscribe for a free trial.