Theories of change are frameworks or models used to understand and explain how and why desired outcomes or impacts occur. Some common types of theories of change include:
- Logical framework approach – a systematic and comprehensive planning and management tool.
- Results chain – a visual representation of the sequence of events that leads from a programâs activities to its intended results.
- Causal loop diagram – a visual representation of the complex relationships between variables in a system, showing how changes in one part of a system can affect other parts.
- Impact pathways – a structured approach to mapping out the causal chains between inputs, activities, outputs, outcomes and impact.