Logic Models
Logic models are a good foundational tool to generate performance measures and support evaluation. Logic models assist in program planning, implementation, management, evaluation, and reporting. They help define the CJCC's intended outcomes and goals; the sequence of intended effects; which activities are to produce which effect; and where to focus outcome and process evaluations. An example of a logic model development template is shown below and can be downloaded here.
Developing a complete logic model can be a lengthy but worthwhile process. There is not just one type of logic model format that is ‘right’ or the best to use. In developing a logic model, you can start from the outcomes and work backward or start from inputs and activities and work forward. Regardless of how you proceed, you must have a clear and comprehensive understanding of the specific problem you would like to address. This typically includes reviewing existing data and relevant research as well as conducting a formal or informal assessment of available capacity, inputs, and needs. Often this information is added to a program plan’s logic model as a problem statement, situation, and/or determinants. Many times, in a CJCC each committee or task force will develop their own goals or problem statements. These can be combined to form a strategic plan for the CJCC as a whole.