Theory of Change (ToC)

Unlocking Social Impact through Strategic Pathway Design

Theory of Change (ToC) is a strategic framework used by organizations, non-profits, and policymakers to design, implement, and evaluate programs aimed at long-term social impact. Often referred to as a Logic Model, ToC helps in mapping the pathway from activities to desired change, ensuring accountability, clarity, and measurable progress.

• Structured pathway planning — Linking inputs, activities, outputs, outcomes, and impact
• Resource identification — Financial, human, knowledge, infrastructure, and partnerships
• Activity design — Educational programs, service delivery, policy advocacy, and community engagement 
• Output measurement — Tracking beneficiaries reached, resources developed, and services delivered
• Outcome evaluation — Assessing short-term (1-3 years) and intermediate (3-5 years) changes
• Impact assessment — Measuring long-term transformational change over 5-10 years
• Assumption testing — Validating underlying conditions necessary for success
• External factor analysis — Considering influences beyond program control

By systematically connecting resources to activities to outcomes, ToC provides a roadmap that helps organizations track progress, align stakeholders, and adjust strategies for maximum effectiveness. This framework is especially valuable for complex social initiatives that need clear causal pathways to demonstrate how specific interventions lead to lasting change.