The term LOGIC MODEL is frequently used interchangeably with the term program theory in the evaluation field. Logic models can alternatively be referred to as program theory because they describe how a program works and to what end.

Logic Model Purpose and Practical Application

The purpose of a logic model is to provide stakeholders with a road map describing the sequence of related events connecting the need for the planned program with the program’s desired results. Mapping a proposed program helps you visualize and understand how human and nancial investments can contribute to achieving your intended program goals and can lead to program improvements.

Logic Models Better Position Programs For Success

Many evaluation experts agree that use of the logic model is an effective way to ensure program success. Using a logic model throughout your program helps organize and systematize program planning, management, and evaluation functions.

Logic Models Strengthen the Case for Program Investment

Clear ideas about what you plan to do and why – as well as an organized approach to capturing, documenting, and disseminating program results – enhance the case for investment in your program.

 

OTI Logic Model

ONETrack International Logic Model
A logic model is a systematic and visual way to present and share your understanding of the relationships among the resources you have to operate your program, the activities you plan, and the changes or results you hope to achieve.
 

Resources / Inputs

OTI Logic Model - Resources
Resources include the human, financial, organizational, and community resources a program has available to direct toward doing the work. Sometimes this component is referred to as Inputs.

Factors are resources and/or barriers, which potentially enable or limit program effectiveness. Enabling protective factors or resources may include funding, existing organizations, potential collaborating interpersonal networks, staff and volunteers, time, facilities, equipment, and supplies. Limiting risk factors or barriers might include such things as attitudes, lack of resources, policies, laws, regulations, and geography.

 

Activities

ACTIVITIES are the processes, techniques, tools, events, technology, and actions of the planned program. These may include products –promotional materials and educational curricula; services – education and training, counseling, or health screening; and infrastructure –structure, relationships, and capacity used to bring about the desired results.

Program Activities are what the program does with the resources. Activities are the processes, tools, events, technology, and actions that are an intentional part of the program implementation.

These interventions are used to bring about the intended program changes or results.

 

Outputs

OUTPUTS are the direct results of program activities. They are usually described in terms of the size and/or scope of the services and products delivered or produced by the program. A program output, for example, might be the number of classes taught, meetings held, or materials produced and distributed; program participation rates and demography; or hours of each type of service provided.

YOUR INTENDED RESULTS include all of the program’s desired results (outputs, outcomes, and impact). Outputs are the direct products of program activities and may include types, levels and target of services to be delivered by the program.

 

Outcomes

OUTCOMES are specific changes in attitudes, behaviors, knowledge, skills, status, or level of functioning expected to result from program activities and which are most often expressed at an individ
ual level.

Outcomes are the specific changes in program participants’ behavior, knowledge, skills, status and level of functioning. Short-term outcomes should be attainable within 1 to 3 years, while longer-term outcomes should be achievable within a 4 to 6 year timeframe. The logical progression from short-term to long-term outcomes should be reected in impact occurring within about 7 to 10 years.

 

Impact

IMPACTS are organizational, community, and/or system level changes expected to result from program activities, which might include improved conditions, increased capacity, and/or changes in the policy arena.

Impact is the fundamental intended or unintended change occurring in organizations, communities or systems as a result of program activities within 7 to 10 years. Impact often occurs after the conclusion of project funding.

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