How Good is My Logic Model?

This tool can help you to develop a new program logic model OR review and revise your existing one. There are some key questions you need to ask to make sure this program strategy and evaluation tool actually makes sense and will help you save the Earth faster.

I've found that logic models can be very useful for straightforward programs. When you write down how the actions are supposed to connect to the results, it can be eye-opening! This can lead you to think of new tools for implementing your programs and new performance measurement strategies. I included the logic model tool because lots of us have the idea that we should be developing logic models, but we don't have a good tool for doing it on our own. I'm hoping this template can help you get started at visualizing getting better results.

Now, if you are working on a more complex program, just respond to this email so that we can chat about leveling up to a Theory of Change model or another higher complexity visual tool.

What Program Map is Right for Me?

Logic models aren’t right for everyone or every program. In fact, few programs really make sense when described in the linear fashion used by most logic models. This document describes three key tools for mapping out your program strategy.

1. Logic Models: these are typically one-dimensional ways to describe how your work will lead to an environmental improvement.

2. Theories of Change: these are typically multi-dimensional models showing how your program, along with other programs, will work toward making an environmental improvement.

3. System Models: these models are like the others, but they include feedback loops, feedforward loops, and other indications of how different aspects interact.

Pick the one that speaks best to you, the people with whom you work, and your program’s influences and challenges.

What to Do When the Evaluators Arrive.

Evaluations can be a bit scary. (Does anyone remember the movie Office Space?) How can you make the most of your program evaluation experience no matter where you sit in your organization?

This document provides a list of insider tips that will help you make sure the evaluation works toward realistic, helpful, Earth-saving results.

How Can I Select Good Performance Measures?

While you’re settling on a good program strategy, you’ll need to also settle on performance measures that make sense, are feasible to collect, and will help you make better decisions as you’re implementing your program. This document gives you some hints on identifying and selecting performance measures that will work for you.