Tribal TANF—Child Welfare Coordination: Theory of Change and Logic Models

Publication Date: April 23, 2019
Current as of:
Tribal TANF—Child Welfare Coordination: Theory of Change and Logic Models Cover

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Introduction

A well-articulated theory of change and logic model are important tools in service delivery. These tools support programs in understanding and improving how a program functions. They provide a foundation for meaningful planning and monitoring of activities. A theory of change and logic model rely on and help support the use of data within an organization. As programs are beginning to articulate a theory of change, data can help service providers understand the needs of individuals with whom they work, their target population. Data can also help inform realistic goals for program progress. Once a theory of change and logic model are developed, data can help providers understand if activities are occurring (outputs) and whether the desired change is occurring (outcomes). Ultimately, a theory of change and logic model supports “data-driven decision-making.”

This tool provides an overview of key concepts and strategies for creating a theory of change as well as a logic model. It also includes a discussion of strategies for ensuring that programs’ outputs and outcomes, two key components of a logic model, are measurable. The tool concludes with a discussion on how and why to revisit a logic model so that it remains a relevant resource throughout the life of a program. Examples, worksheets, and a list of relevant available resources are also provided for programs seeking to incorporate the use of a well-articulated theory of change and logic model into their practice.

Purpose

This tool provides step-by-step guidance, tailored specifically for Tribal TANF-Child Welfare Coordination (TTCW) projects, on the development of a theory of change and a logic model that emphasizes measurability of program outputs and outcomes. The goal of this tool is to provide information that will help current and future TTCW grantees to increase their capacity to develop and utilize program theories of change and logic models.

Related Documents

File TypeFile NameFile Size
PDFTTCW Sample Logic Model467.14 KB

Citation

Ahonen, P., Geary, E., & Keene, K. (2019). Tribal TANF—Child Welfare Coordination: Theory of Change and Logic Models. OPRE Report #2019-55. Washington, DC: Office of Planning, Research, and Evaluation; Administration for Children and Families, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.

Glossary

TTCW:
Tribal TANF-Child Welfare Coordination