Creating a Logic Model: Outputs vs Outcomes
A logic model is a visual representation of a program’s design, including its goals, activities, outcomes, and impact. It provides a clear and concise overview of how the program intends to achieve its objectives and produce desired results. The logic model is a useful tool for program planning, implementation, evaluation, and continuous improvement. By following these steps, organizations can develop a clear and effective logic model that can be used to guide program implementation and evaluate progress towards desired outcomes.
1. Identify the program’s purpose and goals.
Example: The purpose of the program is to reduce childhood obesity in low-income communities. The goal is to increase the number of children who maintain a healthy weight.
2. Define the target population and their needs.
Example: The target population is children ages 6–12 living in low-income communities. Their needs include access to healthy food and physical activity opportunities.
3. Develop specific, measurable objectives that support the program’s goals.
Example: Increase daily fruit and vegetable consumption by 50% and increase physical activity by 30 minutes per day.
4. Identify program activities and interventions.
Example: Develop community gardens, provide nutrition education classes, and organize after-school physical activity programs.
5. Determine short-term and intermediate outcomes that will occur as a result of program activities.
Example(s): Short-term outcome+ Children have increased knowledge of healthy food choices. Intermediate outcome+ Children make healthier food choices and participate in physical activity programs.
6. Identify long-term outcomes that the program aims to achieve.
Example: Children maintain a healthy weight and reduced risk of obesity-related diseases.
7. Identify resources needed for program implementation.
Example: Funding for community gardens, nutrition education materials, and staff salaries.
8. Determine how program outcomes will be evaluated.
Example: Conduct annual surveys to track changes in fruit and vegetable consumption and physical activity levels, and measure changes in weight and body mass index.
As a last step, you can draw the logic model by visually representing the relationships between program components, starting from inputs, moving through activities and outputs, and ending with outcomes. Continuously review and refine the logic model to ensure its relevance and effectiveness.
Note: The logic model is a living document that should be updated as the program evolves.
