W3C Impact Framework (draft)

This is the current draft of W3C Impact Framework based on approach anchored in the Theory of Change, applied to vision of the Web derived from the W3C Vision and the Ethical Web Principles.

Each page describes an expected Impact that W3C seeks to see happen.

Within these pages, outcomes are the pre-requisite needed to make the high-level impact statement true; outputs are the specific deliverable and changes W3C is well-positioned to carry forward; activities are the ways these outputs get produced within W3C, based on inputs W3C needs to ensure are and remain available.

Any of those can be associated with indicators that help detect progress or regressions, and where additional focus and resources might be needed.

Impact Statements

  1. People can share Web content with anyone in the world, and expect them to be able to experience it in their own location, using their own choice of device and software.
  2. People can choose the Web to fulfill their digital needs as it provides a set of options that is at least as rich, diverse and enjoyable as proprietary platforms.
  3. People benefit from the independent innovation on the Web allowed by a permissionless and forkable platform, rather than being limited to what centralized or proprietary platforms allow.
  4. People rely on a resilient, long-lasting Web that adapts gracefully to change.
  5. People in low-resource regions can meaningfully participate in the global Web.
  6. People with disabilities can fully participate online because accessibility is treated as a universal requirement.
  7. People can reliably access and use the Web regardless of their culture and language.
  8. People can rely on the integrity of Web technologies and face reduced digital harms, while keeping control of their time and attention.
  9. People have meaningful control over personal data and identity on the Web.
  10. People can verify authenticity and trustworthiness of information available on the Web.
  11. People can use the Web as a sustainable option for their digital activities.