Logical framework (logframe) template - tools4dev (2024)

Logical framework (logframe) template - tools4dev (1)

A logical framework matrix (or logframe) is the output of a program design process where you work out how the program activities will lead to the immediate outputs, and how these will lead to the outcomes and goal. In an ideal world, a logframe should be flexible and updated frequently.

Unfortunately, these days most donors require you to complete a logframe in their own rigid format, and this then becomes an unchangeablestandard against which your program is assessed. In many cases logframes are treated more like an accounting tool than a program design tool.

But whether you love them or loath them, logframes are here to stay. So that means you need to be able to write one.In most cases the donor will provide their own logframe template (all of them are different). But if they don’t provide one then you can use this template and example as a starting point.

Download logframe template and example

When preparing a lofgrame, one of the most difficult columns to complete is risks/assumptions. An easy way to check whether your risks/assumptions make sense is to look at the activities row andfollow this logic: IF these activities are undertaken AND the assumptions are true THEN these outputs will be produced (see example below):

Logical framework (logframe) template - tools4dev (2)

Then do the same with the outputs: IF the outputs are created AND the assumptions are true THEN the outcome will be achieved. And then the same for the outcome: IF the outcome isachievedAND the assumptions are true THEN the goal will be achieved.

This logframe template is appropriate when:

  • You need to create a simple logframe for a proposal or new project.
  • The donor has not given you a template for the logframe.

This logframe template is NOT appropriate when:

  • The donor has given you a template for the logframe (you should use their template).
  • You are trying to create a Theory of Change rather than a logframe (they are easily confused). To learn more about ToC consider taking a free course.

Don’t like this logframe template?
Find more logframe resources here.

If you would like to learn more about how to write logframes consider taking a free university course.

Logical framework (logframe) template - tools4dev (3)
The LogicalFrameworkTemplate by tools4dev is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike 3.0 Unported License. All other content is© tools4dev.

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Logical framework (logframe) template - tools4dev (2024)

FAQs

How to fill out a logframe? ›

What are the best tools and methods for creating and presenting a logical framework?
  1. Step 1: Define your project goal.
  2. Step 2: Identify your project outcomes.
  3. Step 3: Develop your project outputs.
  4. Step 4: Specify your project activities.
  5. Step 5: Select your project indicators.
Mar 5, 2023

What are the disadvantages of logical framework? ›

4 Limitations of using a logical framework

Additionally, it can focus too much on the outputs and outcomes and neglect the processes and impacts, creating a false sense of certainty and control. Finally, it can be misused or misunderstood by your team and stakeholders.

What is the difference between logframe and Logical Framework Approach? ›

The term Logical Framework Approach (LFA) should not be confused with the term Logical Framework Matrix (LFM), the so-called “logframe”. The Logical Framework Approach is the whole planning process, whereas the logframe is its product and one of its tools.

How did you structure your writing into a logical framework? ›

The key elements of a logical framework include the goal, purpose, outputs, activities, indicators, assumptions, and risks. These elements help structure the project's objectives, activities, and outcomes, ensuring a logical flow of activities to achieve the desired impact.

What is the checklist for the logframe? ›

LogFrame Checklist
  1. LogFrame should follow causal logic.
  2. Results statements should be:
  3. Results should cause the level above, not define it.
  4. LogFrame should not state the same thing in the sub-purpose as is said in the purpose.
  5. Remember, the purpose should describe the final end condition the project wants to achieve.

What is a logframe PDF? ›

A log frame (also known as a Project Framework) is a tool for planning and managing development projects. It looks like a table (or framework) and aims to present information about the key components of a project in a clear, concise, logical and systematic way.

What are the criticism of Logframes? ›

One of the most common criticisms of logframes is that they assume a constant environment and they do not (or cannot by their very nature) represent local realities.

What are the 4 components of logical framework analysis? ›

The logframe consists of a 4 x 4 matrix with four column headings: • Objective or narrative summary/ hierarchy of objectives; • Objectively verifiable indicators (OVIs)/ measurable performance indicators; • Means of verification/ monitoring and coordination; and • Important assumptions and risks.

What are examples of logical framework? ›

Example of a Logical Framework
  • Goal. To improve access to education for children in a rural community.
  • Purpose. To increase enrollment in primary schools in the rural community by 50% within the next two years.
  • Outputs. Construction of two new primary schools in the rural community. ...
  • Activities.

What is another name for a logframe? ›

A Logframe is another name for Logical Framework, a planning tool consisting of a matrix which provides an overview of a project's goal, activities and anticipated results. It provides a structure to help specify the components of a project and its activities and for relating them to one another.

How to read a logical framework? ›

If a logical framework is done properly, the hierarchy of objectives should read logically from the bottom to the top. If the inputs are sufficient the activities can be carried out. If the activities are carried out then the outputs will be produced. If the outputs are produced then the objectives should be realised.

What is the format of a logframe? ›

A logframe is a table that lists your program activities, short term outputs, medium term outcomes, and long term goal. It is supposed to show the logic of how the activities will lead to the outputs, which in tern lead to the outcomes, and ultimately the goal. A logframe is different to a theory of change.

What are assumptions in logframe? ›

The Risks and Assumptions column is the fourth column of the logical framework. The assumptions describe the situations, events, conditions or decisions which are necessary for the success of the project, but which are largely or completely beyond the control of the project's management.

What are the levels of logframe? ›

A basic Logical Framework includes four levels: Goal, Purpose, Outputs and Inputs. This template allows you to create a four-level Logical Framework. The Logical Framework you create can be cut and pasted into a PAD.

What are the contents of a logframe? ›

A Logical Framework (or LogFrame) consists of a matrix with four columns and four or more rows which summarize the key elements of the project plan including: The project's hierarchy of objectives. The first column captures the project's development pathway or intervention logic.

What are examples of logical frameworks? ›

It describes each level of your project. For example, the goal of the project could be a “10% increase in the number of Grades 5-6 primary students continuing on to high school within 3 years.” The outcome leading to this could be “improve reading proficiency among children in Grades 5-6 by 20% within 3 years.”

How do you draw a logframe? ›

The structure of a logframe

A standard logframe is divided into four rows, which are your long- to short-term objectives ranging from top to bottom: Goal (overall aim). Outcome/Purpose (what will be achieved, who will benefit, and by when). Outputs (specific results the project will generate).

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