How can you create a flexible logic model for non-profit management?

1 Start with the problem

Before you design your program, you need to understand the problem you want to address and the context in which it occurs. What are the root causes, effects, and stakeholders of the problem? What are the existing gaps, needs, and opportunities in the field? What are the assumptions, values, and theories that inform your approach? By starting with the problem, you can define your program's purpose, scope, and relevance.

2 Use a participatory process

A flexible logic model is not a one-person or one-time task. It requires the involvement and feedback of multiple stakeholders, such as beneficiaries, partners, funders, staff, and experts. A participatory process allows you to gather diverse perspectives, insights, and evidence to inform your logic model. It also fosters ownership, collaboration, and accountability among the stakeholders. You can use various methods, such as interviews, focus groups, surveys, workshops, and co-creation sessions, to engage your stakeholders throughout the logic model development and revision.

3 Keep it simple and clear

A flexible logic model is not a complicated or confusing diagram. It is a concise and coherent representation of your program's logic and assumptions. It should be easy to understand, communicate, and use by different audiences and purposes. To keep it simple and clear, you should avoid jargon, acronyms, and technical terms. You should also use simple language, visuals, and formats to convey your logic model. You can use different tools, such as templates, software, or online platforms, to create and share your logic model.

4 Align it with your goals and indicators

A flexible logic model is not a static or fixed document. It is a dynamic and adaptable guide that helps you monitor and evaluate your program's progress and performance. It should align with your program's goals and indicators, which define what you want to achieve and how you measure it. You should review and update your logic model regularly, based on the data and feedback you collect from your program activities and outputs. You should also use your logic model to inform your decisions and actions to improve your program's effectiveness and efficiency.

5 Test and refine your assumptions

A flexible logic model is not a definitive or final answer. It is a tentative and provisional hypothesis that needs to be tested and refined over time. It should reflect your assumptions about how and why your program works, which may or may not be valid or accurate. You should test and refine your assumptions by using different sources and methods of evidence, such as research, observation, experimentation, or learning. You should also challenge and question your assumptions by exposing them to different scenarios, perspectives, or criticisms.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?