While many companies are looking to corporate social responsibility initiatives as part of larger business strategies, the practice is subject to much debate and criticism. Proponents argue there is a strong business case, in that companies benefit in multiple ways by operating with a broader perspective than short term, profit driven considerations. Critics argue that corporate social responsibility distracts from the core economic rationale behind the business and, more frequently, that CSR initiatives can be perceived as superficial efforts to generate positive visibility.

It is imperative that companies look at all dimensions and implications of a CSR initiative and strategy, with particular emphasis on how the consumer – the customer – reacts to the brand at a visceral level to ensure that the program objectives align with customer expectations as well as the company’s own and partner business practices.

Access has deep experience working with clients from Fortune 500 to medium size businesses helping identify the right opportunities to develop and implement effective Corporate Social Responsibility programs that achieve multiple objectives with all stakeholders, from federal regulators, shareholders and business partners to analysts, the media and customers.