What are the key components of a logic model?

The key components of a logic model are inputs, activities, outputs, outcomes, and impacts. This framework is essential for program planning, implementation, and evaluation as it visually represents the relationships between the resources invested in a program and the results achieved.

Inputs refer to the resources necessary for the program to function, such as time, money, and staff. Activities are the actions taken to implement the program—these could include workshops, training sessions, or outreach efforts. Outputs are the tangible products or services delivered through these activities, like the number of training sessions held or participants trained.

Outcomes represent the short-term and long-term changes that occur as a result of the program, such as improvements in skills or knowledge among participants. Finally, impacts are the broader, longer-lasting effects of the program on the community or population served, reflecting the ultimate goals of the initiative.

This comprehensive approach ensures that all aspects of the program are considered and helps stakeholders understand how the program intends to create change, making it a vital tool for ongoing evaluation and accountability.