Week 4 · Adaptive Planning Program

19. Building the Logic Model: Outputs & Outcomes

30 min

By the end you'll be able to

Distinguish between outputs, outcomes, and impacts
Define measurable indicators for each logic model component
Articulate the pathway from short-term outcomes to long-term impact

A common error in program planning is confusing what you do (Outputs) with what changes for the population (Outcomes). This lesson focuses on the right side of the Logic Model, clarifying the distinction between direct deliverables, such as the number of people trained, and actual changes in skill, behavior, or health status.

We also address the “Impact” column, which defines the long-term societal level change your program aims to achieve.

Practice quiz

Question 1
Which of these is an Output rather than an Outcome?
- Participants reduced their daily sodium intake by 20 percent.
- Community hypertension rates declined over five years.
- 150 community members completed the cooking class.
- Participants reported greater confidence preparing healthy meals.
Question 2
What does the ‘Impact’ column of a Logic Model represent according to this lesson?
- The short-term skill changes seen immediately after an activity.
- The number of activities delivered in a fiscal year.
- The long-term, societal-level change the program aims to achieve.
- The unit cost per participant served.
Reflection 3
Describe a common error programs make when reporting Outputs versus Outcomes, and how to avoid it.

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