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We are an evaluation & communications firm based in St. Paul, MN though we work with people from all over the United States!

A Brief Introduction About The Step-by-Step Guide

I am writing this post because I’ve been helping many of my clients create logic models recently, and there seems to be a need for more information. If you don’t know what a logic model is, it is a basic visual representation of how a program—or sometimes an organization—functions (Figure 1, also see document attached below). I can’t say it enough how important it is for a program to develop a logic model. Think of it as a snapshot of what your program does, who it serves, the goals it wants to reach, and the impact it wants to achieve.

Figure 1: A basic idea of a logic model for a program or organization

Why is it important to take the time to do this?

Well, If you need an evaluation done, meaning if you need someone to figure out how well your program is doing, a completed, well-thought-out logic model is sometimes all you need. This is because the logic model tells the evaluator what your goals are. From there, you can start developing a survey or interview protocol to assess if the program is reaching any of its short, medium, or long-term goals! And, well, the rest is history. Of course, this is simplifying the process—evaluation is a little bit more complicated than that—but it sure makes it go smoother!

When I do logic model development with my clients, I usually send them a document (attached below) that walks them through the process. It not only gives them the space to reflect deeply about their program but it simultaneously helps them build evaluation capacity, specifically with logic model creation. I’m a firm believer in sharing knowledge and capacity-building, which is why I am sharing this document with the world!

After Completing the Logic Model How-to Worksheet, you will have:

  1. A better understanding of evaluation and logic models
  2. An initial draft of your logic model

If you use this document and find it useful (or not useful!), please write in the comments below* or fill out the survey found at the end of the document. I am always trying to find ways to improve my practice and materials. Feedback is a surefire way to do that.

If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact me.

All the best,

Molly O’Connor
CEO – Evaluation & Communications Specialist
cococanaryconsulting@gmail.com

*FYI, any comments may be used for testimonials for my website or promo materials.