The Logical Framework Definition of a Project A

The Logical Framework

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. 2

“Theory of Change” – Results Framework 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. 3

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

Displaying a Project’s “Theory of Change” 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 Narrative Summary (Column 1 of 4) Vertically Expanded LF Variation Narrative Summary Project Goal Purpose Project Outputs Project Inputs Sub-Purpose a. b. Outputs a. 1. a. 2. b. 1 Inputs a. 1. 1 a. 1. 2 a. 2. 1 b. 1. 1 5

Logical Framework Matrix Core Elements of a Project’s Design 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) Narrative Summary Indicators Data Sources Goal Purpose Outputs Inputs Roadmap for Project Monitoring & Evaluation Assumptions

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

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

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

Stay within the One Page Guideline for your Logical Framework!

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