The Logical Framework

2 Definition of a Project A “project” is defined as: a set of executed interventions, over an established timeline and budget, intended to achieve a discrete development result by resolving an associated problem. It is explicitly linked to the CDCS Results Framework.

“Theory of Change” – Results Framework 3 For every Development Objective in a CDCS, USAID requires a Results Framework that display’s the program’s development hypotheses – its “if/then” cause-and-effect logic.

From Program to Project 4 Generally speaking, the Purpose of a USAID Project will be an IR from a program (DO) Results Framework Project Purpose Project Goal Project Outputs Project Inputs

Displaying a Project’s “Theory of Change” 5 Project Purpose Project Goal Project Outputs Project Inputs Narrative Summary Goal Purpose Sub-Purpose a. b. Outputs a.1. a.2. b.1 Inputs a.1.1 a.1.2 a.2.1 b. 1.1 Logical Framework Narrative Summary (Column 1 of 4) Vertically Expanded LF Variation At the project level, USAID has reintroduced The Logical Framework – a 4 x 4 matrix for displaying the key elements of a project. The first column in a Logical Framework matrix contains the project’s “if/then” hypotheses – it’s “theory of change”

Logical Framework Matrix Goal Purpose Outputs Inputs Narrative Summary IndicatorsData Sources Assumptions Core Elements of a Project’s Design Roadmap for Project Monitoring & Evaluation A Logical Framework matrix displays key elements of a Project Design (Columns 1 and 4) as well as Information pertinent for project Monitoring and Evaluation (Columns 2 and 3)

Project Design Elements in a Logical Framework 7 GOAL PURPOSE OUTPUTS INPUTS If Inputs, then Outputs If Outputs, then Purpose If Purpose, then Goal We hypothesize that by transforming Inputs into Outputs we will achieve our Purpose, and, in turn, contribute to realizing the Goal.

Project Design Elements in a Logical Framework 8 At every level, assumptions we make about external factors need to be articulated, as their status may affect project success.

Monitoring and Evaluation Elements in an LF 9 Indicators Means of Verification -Performance Indicators -Baseline values -Targets: Quantity, Quality and/or Time -Data Sources -Data Collection/Analysis Methods -Frequency and schedule for data collection

Stay within the One Page Guideline for your Logical Framework!

11 Projects that support a high level Results Framework may need additional levels of intermediate results to “link up.” Logical Framework Variations