Refining Theories of Change

Main Article Content

Lovely Dhillon
Sara Vaca

Abstract


Background: Despite the disparities in how they are defined and what elements are included, most Theories of Change remain consistent in one way – their visual format. Typically, Theories of Change are presented as a one-page visual in a flowchart style with lines and boxes of uniform size. In addition, Theories of Change are often created as stand-alone tools that are rarely linked effectively to other organizational tools.


Purpose: The authors: (1) propose the essential elements that contribute to robust Theories of Change and clarify the characteristics that distinguish Theories of Change from other organizational tools and formats; (2) suggest additional elements for inclusion in the Theory of Change; (3) present graphic alternatives that allow for an evolution in representing their complexity and depth; and (4) provide ways to link Theories of Change to other organizational tools to increase organizational alignment, efficiency, and, most importantly, impact.




Research Design: NA


Data Collection and Analysis: NA


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Intervention: NA


Findings: NA




Keywords: theories of change, logic models, evaluation, causal strands, mechanisms, assumptions, hypothesis, data visualization, organizational tools, innovation.



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Article Details

How to Cite
Dhillon, L., & Vaca, S. (2018). Refining Theories of Change. Journal of MultiDisciplinary Evaluation, 14(30), 64–87. https://doi.org/10.56645/jmde.v14i30.496
Section
Research Articles
Author Biography

Sara Vaca

Bringing innovation into evaluation through data visualization.