Frameworks are key elements of M&E plans that depict the components of a project and the sequence of steps needed to achieve the desired outcomes. They help increase understanding of the program’s goals and objectives, define the relationships between factors key to implementation, and delineate the internal and external elements that could affect its success. They are crucial for understanding and analyzing how a program is supposed to work.
There is no one perfect framework and no single framework is appropriate for all situations, but several common types will be discussed here:
•Conceptual framework
• Results framework
•Logic model
A conceptual framework—sometimes called a “research framework”—is useful for identifying and illustrating the factors and relationships that influence the outcome of a program or intervention.
Conceptual frameworks are typically shown as diagrams illustrating causal linkages between the key components of a program and the outcomes of interest. For instance, in this example, the program, in addition to other donors, is supplying health services, in order to increase service utilization, with the ultimate outcome of improved health.
By identifying the variables that factor into program performance and depicting the ways that they interact, the results that can reasonably be expected from program activities are outlined. Clarifying this process permits program designers to develop valid measures for evaluating the success of the outcomes and also guides the
identification of appropriate indicators.
Another example of a conceptual framework—the Mosley-Chen Framework (Mosley & Chen, 1984)—is commonly used in the study of child survival. In this framework, socioeconomic determinants act through five “proximate” or biological determinants to have an impact on child health.
• Maternal factors (age, parity, birth interval)
• Environmental contamination (air, food, water, soil, insect vectors)
• Nutrient deficiency (calories, proteins, vitamins, minerals)
• Injury (accidental or intentional)
• Personal illness control (preventive measures and medical treatment)
Results frameworks—sometimes called “strategic frameworks”—diagram the direct causal relationships between the incremental results of the key activities all the way up to the overall objective and goal of the intervention. This clarifies the points in an intervention at which results can be monitored and evaluated.
To know more enrol for our certificate, Diploma or Postgraduate diploma course offered in both French and English.