Facilitating a group through the process to build a logic model can feel overwhelming. I have some tips and tricks to make the process easier when leading a team through the process of creating a logic model.
Who should be involved?
Try to limit the group to as few people as possible but ensure that you have representation from project/program staff, evaluation staff, and, when possible, leadership teams. Groups larger than ten often struggle to come to a consensus. If your group has more than ten people, think about how you structure each work session; there may be a way to design each session so that every member does not have to be present at every meeting.
Where should we meet?
You will want a flexible space that allows for small group and large group discussions. You will also want a whiteboard or another method to collect ideas. If your room doesn’t have a whiteboard, post-its can be a powerful tool for brainstorming as they allow for the regrouping of ideas.
When do we build our logic model out?
Logic models are best used during the early stages of planning for a program or service. If you are looking to make significant changes to a program or rethink how the program is evaluated, this also can be a good time to draft a logic model.
Why bother with a logic model?
Although you would like to keep meetings to a minimum, it is crucial to dedicate some time reviewing what a logic model is a why it is worth your team’s time and energy to create. The key thing to communicate is that this tool serves as a road map and the planning session helps to make sure everyone is headed to the same destination.
How do I make sure that this tool we created helps us improve our program or service?
Your team’s decisions determine which outputs (actions that you do) will best help you solve the problem you are addressing in your community. The logic model can be used to guide the creation of evaluative measures. These measures will be helpful when reporting back to essential stakeholders and when checking your assumptions and assessing the program to ensure that the desired outcomes are happening. The key to maximizing your logic model is to refer to it when making decisions about changes to your program or service.
If you are looking for step-by-step instructions and examples of logic models, check out my previous blog post, “How do I Create a Logic Model?” Are you still feeling overwhelmed? Schedule a free fifteen-minute call to discuss how I can help. I would love the chance to help guide your team through this process.
Want to know more about Empowered Development Consulting? Reach out to me, Meghan Scheidel, and find out how Empowered Development Consulting can help you.