11.2 Theories of change

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:

1. Logical framework approach – a systematic and comprehensive planning and management tool.
2. Results chain – a visual representation of the sequence of events that leads from a program’s activities to its intended results.
3. 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.
4. Impact pathways – a structured approach to mapping out the causal chains between inputs, activities, outputs, outcomes and impact.