In my previous post, I summarized logic models. If you read that post or have heard about logic models but don’t know where to start, I’ll share some straightforward steps to create a logic model in this post. These steps have been adapted from The Compass For SBA website. The Compass is a curated collection of social and behavior change (SBC) resources.
Who should be involved?
Your logic model should be co-created by team members and leadership staff. Any team member who will be overseeing the evaluation or research related to the project and any leadership staff who are closely connected to the project should participate in this effort. It is great to have senior leadership staff as part of the development team because this helps get internal buy. Everyone is then aligned on the inputs, outcomes, and plans for measuring the desired results.
What timeframe do I need to create a logic model?
Logic models are ideally created at the beginning of a development process for a new service or program. They can also be used when a team has agreed on revamping an existing service or program. It is essential to allow enough time for careful consideration of all the different inputs and outputs. I prefer multiple shorter sessions.
In the first session, you will provide an overview of logic models, agree on the structure of this specific logic model, and then brainstorm for some of the different dimensions of your logic model. From my experience, people tend to have trouble finishing the first draft in one session due to the natural mental fatigue that comes with this kind of rigorous work. In the second session, you will complete the first draft of the logic model and review the document as a whole. Members should be encouraged to review and process the logic model draft and compile any suggestions or feedback before the final session. These three sessions can occur within three days or a few weeks, depending on your timeframe. Scheduling enough sessions close together is imperative so that participants can remember the work that they completed during the previous session.
Overview of Steps for the Creation of a Logic Model
Step 1: Identify the Problem. What problem is your program or service solving?
Embedded in this section should be a statement about your audience. Some people prefer to have the details of their audience in a separate section. Example: Low ratio of men to women in STEM careers.
Step 2: Determine the Key Program Inputs. What are the resources (funding, time, staff) that you can contribute to solving the problem?
If funding for your program has not been secured yet, it is okay to have this section outline budgeted resources dedicated to your program once funding is obtained. Example: You plan to apply for $300,000 in grant funding to cover the cost of your new Women in STEM internship program.
Step 3: Determine Key Program Outputs. What actions will the program staff take (outputs) to ensure the program succeeds (e.g., activities, services, events, and products created)? Example: Create an application process for interns or research/develop a career skills training program for new interns.
Step 4: Identify Program Outcomes. Make a list of what you want the program or service to achieve. These outcomes can be divided into short-term, mid-term, and long-term outcomes, depending on the nature of your program.
Step 5: Create a Logic Model Outline. Take time to assimilate all of the inputs/outputs into a logic model template or custom visual representation of this information.
Step 6: Identify External Influencing Factors. During the review and revision phase, take time to discuss external factors that might impact your outcomes. Example: The local school district is currently considering a proposal for year-round school, thus eliminating the long summer break for high school students.
Step 7: Identify Program Indicators. Come up with a set of indicators for each outcome you hope to achieve. This step helps to ensure alignment across teams and provides measures for accountability for both internal and external stakeholders. Example: How many interns? What percentage will…? How many trainings?
To Summaraize…
Logic models are a useful visual tool that can clarify program goals and objectives and help stakeholders and program staff see how program inputs will lead to the overall strategic objective. Visit The Compass SBA website for an excellent example of a completed logic model and a blank template.
In the next post, I’ll be sharing tips and tricks that I have learned over the years when facilitating a team through the process of creating a logic model. If you would like support in creating a logic model or facilitating the development with your staff, please schedule a call with me to discuss the best way to meet your needs.
Want to know more about Empowered Development Consulting? Reach out to me, Meghan Scheidel, and find out how Empowered Development Consulting can help you.