PROGRAMME OUTCOMES AND IMPACT An outcome is the state of the target population or social conditions that a programme is expected to have changed. Outcomes are observed characteristics of the target population or social conditions, not of the programme but of the benefits products or services might have for the participants (Rossi et al., 2004; UNDP, 2002). Using this manual as an example, outcomes would be any positive attitudinal change among participating communities after community healing training. Here the before-and-after observations will therefore be critical. Not every outcome is of equal importance or relevance. Some important outcomes – for example, very long-term ones – may be quite difficult or expensive to measure. Outcome measurement uses observable indicators that vary systematically with changes or differences in those circumstances. Some programme outcomes have to do with relatively simple and easily observed circumstances that are virtually one-dimensional, while others are multidimensional and have serious facets. A single outcome measure may not be sufficient to present their full character. One of the most consistently used evaluation models is the logic model (also known as the logical framework approach) developed by the Kellogg Foundation (2004). Basically, a logic model is a systematic and visual way to present and share an understanding of the relationships among the resources one has to operate a programme, the activities, and the changes or results one hopes to achieve. The basic logic model illustrates the connection between planned work and intended results (as depicted in Figure 9). Figure 9: The basic logic model (Kellogg Foundation, 2004, p. 1) 1. Resources/ inputs 2. Activities 3. Outputs 4. Outcomes 5. Impact Reading the basic logic model means following the chain of reasoning or ‘If… then…’ statements which connect the programme’s parts as follows: 1. Resources include the human, financial, organisational and community resources that a programme has available to direct towards doing the work. Sometimes, this component is referred to as ‘Inputs’. The logical reasoning is that certain resources are needed to operate a programme. 2. Programme activities are what the programme does with the resources. Activities comprise the process, tools, events, technology and actions that are an intentional part of the programme implementation. These interventions are used to bring about the intended programme changes or results. The logical reason behind this is that, if you have access to them, you can use them to accomplish your planned activities. 3. Outputs are the direct products of programme activities and may include types, levels and targets of services to be delivered by the programme. 130 Community Healing: A training manual for Zimbabwe