R-Index
Regeneration Index
A diagnostic instrument measuring institutional regeneration on a 0-100 scale across three dimensions: decoupling, alignment, and capability.
What is the R-Index?
The R-Index (Regeneration Index) is a diagnostic instrument that measures an institution's regenerative capacity on a 0-100 scale. It quantifies how well a system maintains and grows capability over time—whether that system is a hospital, community fund, or climate infrastructure.
The Problem R-Index Solves
Invisible Decay
Institutions slowly lose capability without clear metrics. Problems surface as crises.
No Common Language
Different sectors struggle with similar issues but lack shared vocabulary to discuss them.
Abstract Theory
Concepts like "regeneration" remain philosophical until they can be measured.
R-Index makes regeneration operational—something a CFO can read, a board can track, and partners can compare.
The Three Dimensions
R-Index is calculated as the average of three sub-scores, each measured 0-100:
Decoupling Score
How independent is capital from fragility cycles?
Measures structural separation from political cycles, annual budgets, donor mood, and short-term refinancing pressure.
Alignment Score
How well does capital cadence match mission cycles?
Measures whether capital flows are synchronized with asset renewal needs—timing, arrival, and sufficiency.
Capability Trajectory
Is system capability going up, flat, or down?
Measures whether functioning assets are increasing at required spec and whether failure incidents are declining.
R* = (SΔ + SΛ + BV) / 3
Interpretation Scale
The Key Insight
R-Index connects abstract theory to operational reality. It makes PSC (capital model) and RCA (institutional architecture) measurable. When you implement PSC in a community foundation, you can track R-Index moving from 32 to 61. The index becomes the common language across health, climate, and community systems.
R-Index Calculator
Interactive instrument with pilot scenarios
Full Explainer
Deep dive into R* theory and formal definitions