STEP 1: Choosing Metrics & Logframe
- The metrics approach is popular with funders as it helps you show that you have done what you promised to do
- It also enables you to collect hard data and use quantitative as well as qualitative techniques as part of your analysis
- The metrics approach provides a clear template (the logframe) which can guide your project and your evaluation of that project
Understanding the Logical Framework
So you have opted or you have been asked by your funder to use the logical framework in your M&E. What do you need to know?
What is the Logical Framework?
- A planning tool that sets out the objectives of a project and how they will be measured
- the most commonly used tool in M&E, favoured especially by funders
- a concise document (usually no more than two pages)
Further details are given in our section on Traditional Tools. Click here.
How does it compare to the Theory of Change?
Key Differences between the Logframe and Theory of Change
| Logical framework | Theory of Change |
| Often mandated by donors | Often voluntary |
| Useful for showing step by step logic by which change should occur. Linear logic | Useful for showing how and why changes are expected to take place. Messier reality of process captured |
| Show in a table and at a glance the basic inputs, outputs and outcomes for your work | Show (usually) as a picture how change is likely to take place |
| May include assumptions/ risks | Focuses heavily on assumptions/ risks |
| Rigid terminology and limited number of steps involved | Is not rigid in its terminology and so is more free-flowing. No limit on number of steps involved |
Source: adapted from IDS
Tools4Dev provides probably the best pictorial depiction of these differences. To view it, click here
How do I Construct a Logframe?
So you have decided to use the logframe. After all, the format is clear and you know the kind of data you are seeking. But how do you construct one?
Details of how to construct a logframe using the ‘if’ and ‘then’ approach are given under traditional tools. Click here.
Where to next?
Once you have constructed your logical framework, you are ready to move to step 2 (data collection) and step 3 (data checking).