The Logical Framework is an analytical model that establishes a detailed approach to developing, executing and evaluating socio-environmental impact projects.
It considers and establishes the relationship between activities, results, objectives and impact.
Its name comes from the logical relationships defined by planners to connect the means of a project with its end.
This model is established and used worldwide for evaluation, management and auditing purposes.
It is part of the PMDPro tools, a methodology that systematizes the concepts and techniques of project management for the social sector.
In order to understand the Logical Framework, we will look at its concepts, structure and how to use it.
What is the Logical Framework for?
The Logical Framework is a methodology that enables a detailed analysis of the data collection and processes of a program or project.
In general, it is applied to capture the elements involved in an intervention that implies intangible results, such as well-being, self-esteem, social capital, etc.
In essence, it presents a logical flow to understand how activities generate results, which achieve objectives and ultimately promote an impact.
In this way, by concentrating the main characteristics and processes of an intervention, the tool enables better evaluation and monitoring.
Logical Framework Matrix
The Logical Framework Matrix is a structure widely used to represent the tool visually, in order to organize its components according to their descriptions, indicators, sources of verification and assumptions.
Components
- Impact: The impact must represent the final change sought. Examples: transformation, sustainability, livelihoods, well-being, etc.
- Objectives: These are what the project wants to deliver at the beneficiary level and which contribute to changes for the population. Aggregated, they contribute to long-term impact. Example: reduced malnutrition, improved income, etc.
- Results: these are tangible and intangible deliverables. They can include: products, goods and services that contribute to the objectives. Example: people trained with knowledge and skills, roads built, etc.
- Activities: these are the tasks that must be carried out, mobilizing human, financial, technical and material resources to produce results.
It is important to note that the nomenclatures used in the Logical Framework may vary, however, it always follows the same logical line of reasoning.
Assumptions
Assumptions are hypotheses about the necessary conditions, whether external or internal, to ensure that cause and effect relationships work as expected.
This means that they are statements that must hold true in order for activities to lead to results and results to lead to objectives.
Indicators
An indicator is a quantitative or qualitative measure used to measure a change.
Indicators show the extent to which a project is meeting its targets in its planned activities, results, objectives and impacts.
It is essential that all indicators follow the SMART criteria (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant and Time-bound).
Verification Sources
Verification sources are the sources from which we obtain the data and information that measure our indicators. Verification sources must be reliable and cost-effective.
Using the Logical Framework Matrix
Lógica Vertical
Vertical logic follows the logical conditionals “if” and “then”.
In other words: if the above happens, then the following happens.
Horizontal logic
Horizontal logic follows the logical conditionals “if”, “and” and “then”.
In other words: if the horizontal logic happens and the assumptions remain true, then the project will succeed.
Example
In a corporate volunteering project, vocational workshops are held for young people of apprentice age.
The Logical Framework Matrix for the project would be as follows:
The logical framework is a living document and must be kept up to date as the project changes. As a planning, monitoring and evaluation tool, keeping it regularly updated is essential as the project progresses.
Now that you know how the Logical Framework works, get to know the Theory of Change, another powerful tool for positive impact projects.
You can also learn more about our Impact Assessment methodology.
