3 steps to strengthen your Theory of Change
The Theory of Change (ToC) is the heart of every social organization. The ToC is a visual strategy that represents the “why” and the “how” of your initiative. It helps plan steps and measure impact.
As your organization evolves, you must adapt your ToC to new challenges and needs. Carla Grados, from 60 Decibels, recommended 3 dynamics to strengthen your ToC and align it with the changes in your organization.
Before you begin:
It’s CRUCIAL to take the time to review your current ToC. Analyze which blocks are the most important for your organization based on:
- Pillars or vision: What change do you want to achieve?
- Activity: What needs to happen to reach your vision?
- Output: What will you do to achieve your vision?
- Outcomes: What measurable results will define the success of your vision?
How Can I Strengthen My Theory of Change?
1. Review and select insights:
Analyze the insights from your impact report. Work with your team to identify the most relevant and feasible insights.
2. Create a prioritization matrix:
Divide a board into quadrants of relevance and priority. Focus on what is most critical for your organization.
3. Do “match-making”:
Form groups within your team to place the most important insights into the blocks of your current ToC. Only add those that are relevant to the ToC.
With these dynamics, you can redefine aspects of your ToC; add, remove, or relocate blocks and insights. This will give you more clarity about what you want to do, how to do it, and how to measure it.
If you want to learn more about the Theory of Change, join the waitlist for our fellowship here.
Learn more about 60 Decibels and their work in data measurement here.
Written by Alexandra Guerra.
