Logic Model

 A logic model is a visual representation of your organization's or program's theory of change. It literally explains in a clear, linear fashion the "logic" behind your program model.

If you are in the nonprofit world or develop any programs for social change, you will inevitably hear of a logic model. Many nonprofits don't create a logic model until they are tasked to have one for a grant application or other funder. This leaves program directors scrambling on google to find a template and trying to create something for the sake of a single application. Although they can look a bit intimidating, they are actually pretty straightforward and can be much more useful than simply "checking a box" on a grant application.

This article will break down how to develop the model, what you can use it for, and give you a free template to get you started.

Breaking down the model

Logic Models layout inputs, outputs, outcomes, assumptions, and external factors. While you are creating your model, imagine someone will have to recreate your program solely from the model itself.

1. INPUTS: resources, contributions, investments that go into the program

2. OUTPUTS: activities, services, events, and products that reach people who participate or who are targeted

3. OUTCOMES: results or changes for individuals, groups, communities, organizations, communities, or systems

4. Assumptions: the beliefs we have about the program, the people involved, and the context and the way we think the program will work

5. External Factors: the environment in which the program exists includes a variety of external factors that interact with and influence the program's action.

Download your free editable logic model template.