OUTCOMES
A critical understanding of the wider impact of your project
A roadmap to achieve the desired long-term impact
A more objective perspective on the causality of your interventions
A reframed problem area based on the outcomes of the tool
USING THE TOOL
A Theory of Change provides a cause-and-effect roadmap for you to see the connection between your actions and the long-term goal. It enables you to articulate actionable measures towards delivering the intended impact and align all relevant stakeholders on a common vision. In helping you make important decisions regarding which concepts to take forward and address key assumptions, the Theory of Change tool becomes a ‘North Star’ for your product offerings.
Define the problem: Start by writing down the primary problem you are trying to solve. You can refer to your “How might we…” statement to help you articulate this.
Long-term impact: Make a note of the long-term impact you wish to see through your project.
Actions: Complete the boxes explaining how your strategy brings the impact you intend. Be as specific as possible thinking of practical actions that help you realise your goal, and be mindful of assumptions and risks at every stage.
Critique: Analyse to what extent your actions are effective in addressing your goal.
Review the problem: Question if you are addressing the right problem based on the effectiveness of your concepts. Consider reframing your problem if you notice inconsistencies.
good sequence
Reframing Canvas > Theory of Change > HMW Statement
Tips
Consider this tool as a space to review your theory as well as a possible space for ideation
If possible, try to get an outsider’s perspective to judge your Theory of Change to help identify any gaps you may have missed
Depending on what stage you are at in the development of ideas and strategies for your project, you may find this tool premature. It can be used to assess an overall strategy, or specific concepts, but either way, it is worth repeating this exercise many times throughout your project to challenge your theory of how your intervention will impact the problem and lead to the effect you wish
