Using a Theory of Change

What is Theory of Change
Theory of Change is a comprehensive description and illustration of how and why a desired change is expected to happen in a particular context. It is particularly focused on mapping out or “filling in” what has been described as the "missing middle” between what a program or change initiative does (its activities or interventions) and how these lead to desired goals being achieved. It does this by first identifying the desired long-term goals and then works back from these to identify all the conditions (outcomes) that must be in place (and how these related to one another causally) for the goals to occur. These are all mapped out in an Outcomes Framework.

Key Principles for Developing a Theory of Change:
a. It should be developed consultatively to reflect the understanding of all relevant stakeholders and build stakeholder ownership an d commitment;
b. It should be grounded in, tested with, and revised based on robust evidence at all stages; and
c. It should support continuous learning and improvement from programme design to closure.

• Theory of Change Webinar - recently delivered by Dr Harriet Wingfield about the benefits of theory of change, why it's important and examples of how to use it.
• Theory of Change Descriptor - A guide to understand and fulfil the Theory of Change requirement.

Below are some links to resources on other websites, which may be useful. NELP is not responsible for the content of these sites.

• Center for Theory of Change - a non-profit organisation established to promote quality standards and best practice for the development and implementation of Theory of Change, with a particular focus on its use and application in the areas of international development, sustainability, education, human rights and social change.
• Community Builders Approach to Theory of Change - to best realise the value of creating a theory of change as part of planning and evaluating social interventions, the Aspen Institute Roundtable on Community Change developed an approach to help community builders create robust theories of change.
• Simple animated explainer of Theory of Change – explanation that utilises a simple real-life example to highlight key concepts.
• Introduction to Theory Change – introduction to Theory of Change highlighting the use of an Outcomes Pathway as the means by which to articulate how actions contribute to the long-term ambition of a programme of work.
• Logical Framework v Theory of Change – this video provides an explanation of the similarities and difference between a Logical Framework and Theory of Change, highlighting that Theory of Change is a more holistic, flexible and context specific view of how change is expected to happen and is more suited to complex and adaptive change processes.
• How to construct a Theory of Change – a useful explainer that highlights the importance of being inclusive in the development process to build ownership and commitment from stakeholders.