Logical Framework Analysis (LFA) breaks down a project into key components, providing a structured and systematic way of planning, implementing, and evaluating projects. Here are the definitions of the various components of LFA for an NGO’s project proposal:
1. Goal (Overall Objective)
Definition: The broader, long-term change or impact the project aims to contribute to. It is usually outside the direct control of the project and reflects wider societal or developmental goals.
Example: Improve public health and reduce water-borne diseases in the rural region.
2. Purpose (Immediate Objective)
Definition: The specific, measurable result that the project is directly responsible for achieving. This is the immediate change or benefit to the target population as a result of the project’s activities.
Example: Provide 1,000 households with sustainable access to clean drinking water within 12 months.
3. Outputs (Deliverables)
Definition: The specific, tangible products or services that will be delivered by the project. These are the direct results of the project’s activities and are necessary to achieve the project’s purpose.
Example:
- Five wells constructed in the community.
- 1,000 households trained on water hygiene practices.
- A community water management committee established and operational.
4. Activities
Definition: The specific tasks and actions carried out to produce the outputs. These are the detailed steps the project team will take to achieve the desired results.
Example:
- Conduct feasibility studies to determine well locations.
- Train community members on water hygiene and sanitation.
- Form and train a community water management committee.
5. Inputs (Resources)
Definition: The resources that are required to implement the project activities. These can include financial, human, material, and technical resources.
Example:
- Funding for construction and training.
- Personnel such as project managers and trainers.
- Equipment and materials like construction tools, training kits, etc.
6. Indicators (Objectively Verifiable Indicators – OVI)
Definition: Measurable criteria or benchmarks that show progress toward achieving the project’s objectives. They allow the project team to assess whether the goal, purpose, and outputs are being met.
Example:
- Number of wells constructed and operational.
- Number of households with access to clean water.
- Reduction in the incidence of water-borne diseases.
7. Means of Verification (MOV)
Definition: The sources of data or methods used to verify the indicators. This can include reports, surveys, official records, site visits, or other documentation.
Example:
- Contractor reports confirming well construction.
- Attendance lists from hygiene training workshops.
- Health clinic records tracking the reduction of water-borne diseases.
8. Assumptions
Definition: The external factors or conditions that may influence the project’s success but are outside the control of the project team. These factors are critical for the project’s success and are closely monitored as risks.
Example:
- Community members will consistently use the new water sources.
- Political stability in the region remains favorable.
- Weather conditions do not significantly delay construction.
9. Preconditions
Definition: Conditions that need to be met before the project can start or be successful. These are specific to the project context and must be in place for the project to proceed.
Example:
- Securing the necessary permits for construction.
- Adequate community buy-in for the project.