Project logic

Transferring a fantastic idea to paper can sometimes be a challenge. Below are tips based on The Logical Framework Approach (LFA), an established method since the 60s and recommended by, among others, the EU during several program periods.

PROJECT LOGIC – how do we create a logical project?

The red thread

To make a project understandable and logical, a clear and distinct direction is needed throughout the project. By following the steps in the LFA method when writing your project application, it becomes easier to include this overarching direction in your text.

Imagine a project where the goal is to create a green oasis in the middle of the city to promote community health. Here, the red thread would be people's well-being and sustainability. Through each step of the project, from planning and design to construction and maintenance, the focus would be on strengthening the connection between the urban environment and health. This gives the project a strong and understandable direction, where each part supports and unites with the overall goal.

Below is another example that shows how a project can have a clear overarching direction:

To better understand what a project is about, it can be helpful to have a clear method. Different terms are often used, but they essentially mean the same thing: Theory of change, Theory of change, and Project logic.

An important thing to avoid is starting with the activities and then trying to explain why. Instead, it is wiser to start by understanding what you actually want to achieve.

The LFA method is based on nine different steps:

Context analysis

To clarify the issue, it is important to identify its surroundings and the processes that affect it. It may also be good to investigate whether there are political decisions that could impact the issue. Gathering information about the background is important to understand what is already being done in the project area or sector. Both the municipality, other authorities, and organizations may have useful insights to share. It is also significant to take advantage of previous lessons and avoid repeating what has already been done.

Stakeholder analysis

A central part of planning a project is to identify those who are interested in the project being implemented and to include them in the planning. It is especially important to focus on the target group as a key stakeholder, as well as involve other relevant people such as project owners, authorities, experts, and employers. It is wise to think broadly and include a diversity of people with different competencies to ensure that the project becomes as effective as possible.

Problem analysis

Start by clearly defining the main problem that you want to solve or contribute to solving. Then it is important to map both the causes and consequences of this main problem. This helps you understand why the project is necessary.

To give your problem-solving a clear structure, you can use a problem tree. Through this tool, you can identify the various horizontal aspects and possibly determine if it is necessary to limit the problem area.

So, in summary, the process is:

1. Establish the main problem that you want to solve or contribute to solving.
2. Identify the causes and effects of the main problem.
3. Understand why the project is needed.
4. Build a reasonable problem tree to identify horizontal criteria and possibly narrow down the problem.

Goal analysis

What is the main goal of the project? It is crucial to define the goal as clearly as possible. Once this is clear, you can identify smaller sub-goals that address the causes of the problem and overarching goals. To structure the goals, you can use a goal tree that reflects the nature of the problem.

When you then include any horizontal criteria in your planning, you must first understand what these are. Horizontal criteria are factors that affect the project but are not directly related to its core. For example, this may include rules and guidelines that must be followed or financial constraints. To incorporate horizontal criteria, you must identify them and then take them into account when formulating your goals and activities.

It is also essential to distinguish between goals and activities. Goals describe what you wish to achieve, while activities represent the actions required to reach the goals. Once your goals are clear, you can then determine what activities are needed to realize them.

So, in summary, the process will be:

1. Narrow down the main goal of the project.
2. Identify sub-goals that address the causes of the problem and the overarching goals.
3. Present the goals in the form of a realistic goal tree.
4. Plan for horizontal criteria by identifying them and taking them into account when designing goals and activities.
5. Distinguish between goals and activities to better achieve your goals.

Activity planning

To organize project activities, it is crucial to distinguish between goals and activities. The activities serve as tools to achieve the goals, and a clear and logical connection between them is necessary. It is worth noting that the activities do not in themselves constitute the goal; they answer HOW the project will achieve its goals.

Find out if there are horizontal criteria to consider, such as regulations and budget constraints.

Resource planning

To implement our planned project, we must first list what resources are required. This may include personnel, external services, premises, equipment, travel, and necessary expertise. To create a clear resource plan, it is essential to clarify who is responsible for which resources.

To avoid forgetting important resources, it is good to consider previous projects and reflect on which resources were crucial for their success. It may also be valuable to think creatively and explore if there are other resources that could be beneficial for our project.

Att föra över en fantastisk idé till papper kan ibland vara en utmaning. Nedan f….

Indicators

PROJEKTLOGIK – hur skapar vi ett logiskt projekt?.

Den röda tråden.

Risk analysis

To manage risks that may affect goal achievement, it is important to conduct a thorough risk analysis that identifies both internal and external risks. By identifying which factors can be influenced and which cannot, one can create an action list to manage the risks and minimize their impact on the project.

An important part of the risk analysis is to specify who is responsible for implementing the various measures to avoid anything falling through the cracks. By conducting the risk analysis in a timely manner and together, one can avoid problems later in the process.

It is common for the risk analysis to be underdeveloped, but it is important to carry it out to create decisiveness and ensure a successful implementation of the project.

Assumptions/conditions

External factors and conditions that cannot (or are very difficult) to influence

Sure! Please provide the text you would like me to translate.

EU support or other (financing) is a prerequisite.
A certain labor market measure as a prerequisite for achieving the project's goals.
Laws and regulations make it impossible
Anchoring that ensures implementation.
What have the stakeholders said?