If you’re a grant writer or nonprofit professional, you know how important it is to clearly show funders how your program will achieve its goals. That’s where a program logic model can help. It provides a roadmap of what you’ll do, how you’ll do it, and what you expect to change, making it easier for funders to understand and support your plan.
What Is a Program Logic Model?
A program logic model is a tool that gives a big-picture view of your project.
Think of it like a roadmap for your program — it shows where you are, where you want to go, and how you plan to get there. This model helps you stay on track, plan your activities, and demonstrate to funders how your project will make a real difference.
A logic model is broken down into six sections:
- Problem Statement: Describes the issue your program aims to solve.
- Goal: Defines what you are aiming to acheive.
- Inputs: The resources you need to run your program.
- Activities: The specific actions your program will take.
- Outputs: The immediate, tangible results of your activities.
- Outcomes: The changes or benefits that result from your program.
Each section serves a purpose and helps connect the problem you’re trying to solve with the outcomes you want to achieve. It’s clear and simple — not a detailed plan with every single step but a map that shows the main path from start to finish.
Example of a (very simple) Program Logic Model:
- Problem Statement: You’re tired every morning and need a quick boost to start your day.
- Inputs: Coffee beans, water, a coffee maker, a filter, a mug, and electricity.
- Activities: Grind the beans, fill the coffee maker with water, place the filter, add the coffee grounds, and turn on the coffee maker.
- Outputs: Freshly brewed coffee in the pot, ready to pour into your mug.
- Outcomes:
- Short-Term: You feel more awake after drinking the coffee.
- Mid-Term: You have the energy to complete your morning tasks.
- Long-Term: You maintain a healthy morning routine and stay productive throughout the day.
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