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The Importance of the Logic Model
The term "logic model" comes from the evaluation field, but most fundamentally, they are an element of programming that communicates the logic behind a program, its rationale. The purpose of a logic model is to convey the underlying “theory” – or assumptions and hypotheses – that justify program development and implementation, or why a program is a good solution to an identified problem or need.
Why is it important to develop Logic Models? To increase program accountability, potential program supporters and funders are increasingly demanding logic model development in order to defend and demonstrate program results – successes and areas for improvement. Logic models are valuable for everyone involved in a program or initiative, from the organization’s board members and top administrators, program staff, and participating organizations, to evaluators and others seeking to understand the work. Even program participants and beneficiaries ultimately benefit from logic model implementation, which tends to improve program outputs and outcomes.
Logic models:
Make sense! – simplify our perspective
Think clearly about our goals and outcomes – evaluate programs
Depict program performance, strengths and weaknesses – standardize reporting
Plan and report in a common language – streamline communication
Look at the whole picture – plan future programming directions
Specifically, logic models (1) convey the fundamental purpose or a program or initiative; (2) demonstrate the importance of a program or initiative; (3) show the intended results from a program or initiative; (4) depict the services/activities expected to produce the desired results; become a common language and reference point for those involved in a program or initiative; and (5) serve as a basis to determine whether services/activities lead to desired results.
So, why are logic models important? Logic models are increasingly utilized as a common language in the non-profit sector, fundamental for program planning and evaluation, and essential to improving programming performance and demonstrating accountability. As logic model utilization becomes status quo, if your organization doesn’t jump on the band-wagon, you will be left behind wondering why your program is floundering, and losing funder support.
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