Cranfield University School of Management research finds empirical evidence showing that Investors in People underpins effective management through its impact on the development of managerial capabilities and management performance. Investors in People recognised companies have better managerial capabilities that triggers a chain of events leading to better financial performance.

Research conducted by Cranfield University School of Management demonstrates that adopting Investors in People sets up a chain of impact resulting in improved financial performance. The study also finds that the more an organisation embraces Investors in People principles, the more profound the impact on financial performance.

The CBI’s first Education and Skills Survey reveals the impact of Investors in People and how it is viewed by CBI members.  Covering 735 firms (employing 1.7 million people) and based on interviews at Board level the report concludes that Investors in People adds real value to firms.
It also concludes that Investors in People is a well established business development tool with high brand recognition.

Research conducted by the Work Foundation and the Institute of Employment Studies demonstrates that organisations that adopt an integrated range of HR practices, as formalised through the Investors in People Standard, are likely to perform better on key indicators like profit and sales growth. Furthermore employers of all types and sizes could benefit from the strategic investment in people formalised through Investors in People. 

Analysis by IES comparing the results of Investors in People and non Investors in People companies finds that Investors in People accredited companies generate higher gross profits per employee, all else being equal, and that this superior performance is not the result of the self selection of better performing companies to Investors in People. 
It also concludes that the ‘typical’ organisation that currently does not have Investors in People accreditation has the capability to generate an additional £176.35 per employee in gross profits per annum, should they seek and gain Investors in People accreditation.