Logic Models

Some coalition leaders—eager to implement strategies in their communities—ask why they should develop a strategic plan after they have completed their logic model. However, a good strategic plan builds on the work that a coalition has done in developing a logic model by expanding the planning process and creating objectives for measurable outcomes.

CADCA's 2011 Mid-Year Training Institute, being held July 24-28 at the Hyatt Regency Orange County in Anaheim, Calif., will feature a working session on logic models. Participants will be provided with a common format that they will use to strengthen their current logic model(s).

In last month's audio podcast, Jane Callahan, Director of CADCA's National Coalition Institute, explained the concept of a logic model and how it helps coalitions define their goals and efforts within the context of their communities.

Before your coalition can really address a problem in the community, you first need to learn as much as you can about that problem. One of the best ways to make a roadmap that links the needs and resources of your community to strategies and activities that address the issue is by developing a logic model. Logic Models not only help coalitions identify problems and their root causes in a community, but also show how coalition members and diverse community sectors fit into a broader framework of positive population-level change and outcomes.

As part of its strategic planning, CADCA's National Coalition Institute has developed a logic model which outlines its Theory of Change, Aims, Outcome Measures, Strategies, benchmarks and activities for the 5-year period from 2008-2013, its current grant period.

Sample logic model referenced in the CADCA National Coalition Institute's Evaluation Primer.

Community Strategy Logic Model - flow chart.