Answering your top three questions about using the Integrated Reporting Framework under the Value Reporting Foundation

Last month we celebrated the beginning of a new era as the IIRC and SASB officially merged into the Value Reporting Foundation, a clear response to calls for clarity and simplicity in the corporate reporting landscape. The Value Reporting Foundation is a global nonprofit that supports business and investor decision-making with three key resources: Integrated Thinking Principles, Integrated Reporting Framework and SASB Standards.

After the merger, we have received questions about how existing or prospective integrated reporters should refer to the <IR> Framework, and whether the merger changes anything for them. We’re writing to provide clarity on the top three questions we’ve received.

Did the Integrated Reporting Framework change as a result of the merger?

The short version: no! The long version: The Integrated Reporting Framework will continue to be set according to the principles, processes and practices outlined in our Procedures Handbook. The International Integrated Reporting Framework Board will continue to oversee the <IR> Framework, to recommend for approval any revision, modification or other update, as well as provide input on other guidance material relating to integrated reporting or integrated thinking.

More businesses than ever before are using the <IR> Framework, with over 2,500 users in more than 75 countries.

How should I refer to the Integrated Reporting Framework after the merger?

The Framework continues to be called the International Integrated Reporting Framework (with some referring to it as the <IR> Framework for short).

You can refer to the <IR> Framework independently of the Value Reporting Foundation. If you wish to provide clarity about the link between the two, you can say that the <IR> Framework is maintained by the Value Reporting Foundation. If you want to illustrate your use/support of the <IR> Framework on your website or in a publication, please use this logo.

Do I now have to use the <IR> Framework together and SASB Standards together?

The Value Reporting Foundation will demonstrate how the <IR> Framework and the SASB Standards may be used together and thus better enable organisations to plan and communicate value creation, preservation or erosion over the short, medium and long term. However, it is up to each business to select the appropriate reporting frameworks and sustainability standards, depending on business needs and user needs. Businesses can choose to use the <IR> Framework and SASB Standards together, independently of each other or, of course, not at all.

If you have any questions regarding the Value Reporting Foundation and our resources, please contact us at [email protected].