Terminology Confusion

This week Matt Bannick of Omidyar Network was interviewed by Forbes on the evolution of technology and social philanthropy. Bannick, the founder of Omidyar Network and a former President of Ebay, International and Paypal, Bannick pointed to two challenges lack of shared terminology and standardized metrics of accountability that are a concern to the growth of the industry. As amazed as I am by the breadth of tools available to me as a potential philanthropist, Bannick's point about the lack of standard terminology within the sector resonated with me. I am often solicited by friends to make donations through several organizations including Kiva.org, Giveology, etc. to use my limited funds to make an impact both domestically and across the globe. The quantity of "micro" organizations that are available to the public can be quite overwhelming and has blurred the line between microfinancing, microdonation, and microlending. While they may be well known among industry insiders but it is my guess that the sooner that these industries define and differentiate as a part of their marketing, greater returns will be seen.