The Benefits of Building a Logic Model

1. DEVELOPS UNDERSTANDING

It helps build understanding, if not consensus, about what the program is, what it is expected to do, and what measures of success it will use.

2. MONITORS PROGRESS

It provides a plan to track changes so that successes can be replicated and mistakes avoided.

3. SERVES AS AN EVALUATION FRAMEWORK

It makes it possible to identify appropriate evaluation questions and relevant data that are needed.

4. HELPS REVEAL ASSUMPTIONS

It helps program planners to be more deliberate about what they are doing and identifies assumptions that may need validating.

5. HELPS RESTRAIN OVER-PROMISING

It helps program planners and others realize the limits and potential of any one program.

6. PROMOTES COMMUNICATION

It creates a simple communication piece useful in portraying and marketing your program.

Finally, there is value in the process of developing a logic model. The process is an iterative one that requires stakeholders to work together to clarify the underlying rationale for the program and the conditions under which success is most likely to be achieved. Gaps in activities, expected outcomes, and theoretical assumptions can be identified, resulting in changes being made based on consensus building and a logical process rather than on personalities, politics, or ideology.

The clarity of thinking that occurs from the process of building the model becomes an important part of the overall success of the program. The model itself provides a focal point for discussion. It can be used to explain the program to others and to create a sense of ownership among the stakeholders.