A logic model is a tool that simply and effectively presents your organization’s business model, strategy, and related initiatives. They have real executive appeal because logic models present complex ideas simply, on one page, and focus attention on strategy and long-term thinking. The practical and user-friendly approach of the logic model and its illustrative format prove invaluable when explaining initiatives and strategy, especially to the executive team.
Logic Model Overview
The W.K. Kellogg Foundation (2004) and Rossi, Lipsey, & Freeman (2004) advocate for the use of logic models to explain the theory of programs and initiatives. Logic models provide a vehicle through which to clearly express the linkages between the outcomes, processes, assumptions, and theory of a particular program or initiative (W.K. Kellogg Foundation, 2004). The pragmatic approach of the logic model and its easily understood illustrative format prove invaluable when explaining the initiative to stakeholders, especially those decision-makers with the authority to approve funding (W.K. Kellogg Foundation, 2004).
Logic models are not tightly controlled or rigid in their format and allow for flexibility and creativity in their use. The W.K. Kellogg Foundation (2004) presents a general template for logic models and also describes theory, outcomes, and activities as three different approaches to logic models. Moreover, the W.K. Kellogg Foundation (2004) encourages creativity in the use of logic models and approaches employed, as evidenced by the hybrid logic model, a combination of approaches required to meet the need. Regardless of the approach used, logic models present a series of ‘if…then’ statements that explicitly illustrate the connections between resources, processes, outcomes, and theory, therefore presenting a holistic picture easily understood by all stakeholders (W.K. Kellogg Foundation, 2004).
Executives often comment on the element of “reverse engineering” the process, discussing how the logic model compels people to start with the long-term outcomes and then work backward to the initial inputs. Others highlight how logic models effectively and simply captures the value profit chain. And most like how it serves as an executive summary, dashboard, and one stop shop. Logic models convey an organization’s business model on one page and in a holistic manner, helping executives organize their strategic thinking. Logic models are useful tools for conveying organizational strategy.
Logic Model Examples
References
Rossi, P. H., Lipsey, M. W., & Freeman, H. E. (2004). Evaluation: A systematic approach (7th ed.). Thousand Oaks, California: Sage Publications, Inc.
W.K. Kellogg Foundation (2004). Using logic models to bring together planning, evaluation, and action: Logic model development guide. Battle Creek, Michigan: W.K. Kellogg Foundation.