What is corporate social investment? 

Corporate social investment (CSI) plays a key role in how businesses contribute to social good. It is also part of a much larger effort to encourage responsible business: a holistic view of business, its role in society, and the positive contribution it can make. 

In this course, we’ll start with the basics of what CSI is and why it is important. We’ll zoom out, layer by layer, to explore how business contributes positively to society and discuss shared value. Finally, we’ll look at the various other concepts that, together with CSI, should be considered by responsible businesses. 

After each module, use your downloadable PDF workbook to complete the exercises provided.  

If you’re part of an organisation, this will help you identify key points to include in your own CSI or responsible business efforts and assess your position relative to CSI trends, globally and in South Africa. 

Equipping yourself with relevant terms and concepts, understanding the context and history, and knowing trends and lead practices will give you a deeper understanding of what CSI is, and the depth of its potential. 

How to make the most of this course 

A self-paced online course has many advantages. It offers flexibility so you can learn when and where it suits you best. But it can also be more challenging to keep motivated. These principles should help.   

• Use the course with the best intentions: to learn and equip yourself with skills. 
• Be patient when there are technical difficulties and with the people working to solve them. 
• Read all the material, watch the videos, listen to the audio, explore the links and then complete the exercises in your downloadable PDF workbook. 
• Once you have completed the course, schedule time with relevant team members to share or apply what you’ve learnt. 

Tips for online learning 

• Schedule: Doing the course in a single day can cause information overload. Work with your schedule and set aside time each day to make progress in the course. This may be 15 minutes before work, during a break, or before you close your computer for the day. Some prefer to set daily reminders on their phone or computer. You may choose to complete the course in larger chunks, such as a module per day. 
• Make notes: Keep a notebook or online document and make notes throughout the course. This will help keep you engaged, help you remember what you’ve learnt, and serve as a reference point once you’ve completed the course. 
• Share insights: When you have an insight or idea, share it with colleagues, friends, or on social media. This can help generate discussion and deeper thinking. 
• Stay motivated: Reward yourself for milestones such as completing a module. 

If you would recommend the course to others, please share it with your networks and social media.