Logical Framework Approach (LFA)

I used problem tree analysis several time in my professional career to analysis the causes and effects of a problem. First time, I learn and used Logical Framework Approach (LFA) as planning and logical tool in project design in April 2011 in a training named "Monitoring and Evaluation" at Civil Society Resource Centre (CSRC), Karachi. In this training, through LFA tool we design a project. The tool help us to understand and develop a logical relationship of the project. Although, I have used different step of the tool, such as stakeholder analysis, risk and assumption and logical framework matrix in project design, implementation, monitoring and evaluation. But, first time, we used the whole tools during my Post-Graduation Diploma "Project Management (PM)" at Maastricht School of Management (MSM), Netherlands as planning tool in developing the communication campaign of "United World College (UWC) Maastricht and design my Back Home Action Plan (BHAP). This is powerful analytical tool help to develop a causal relations of all step of project and easily understand. In this blog, I will give you a brief introduction, history and building blocks of LFA. 

INTRODUCTION:

Logical Framework Approach (LFA) is an analytical, planning and management tool used to improve the designs of interventions.  It's involves identifying strategic elements (inputs, outputs, outcomes,impact) and their causal relationship. Actually it's provide set interlocking concepts which support for the systematic analysis of a problems or idea.  LFA is used by most multi-lateral and bilateral aid agencies, international NGO's and many governments for the planning and management of development projects. Tools allow to systematically analyses the all angles and steps of a project, through logical develop of a project will easy to planning, implementation, monitoring and evaluation. 

HISTORY:

Originally developed and applied in science (NASA) and the private sector (management by objectives) for the planning and management of complex projects, the Logical Framework Approach was first formally adopted as a planning tool for overseas development activities by USAID in the early 1970s. Since then it has been adopted and adapted by a large number of agencies involved in providing development assistance. They include the British DFID, Canada’s CIDA, the OECD Expert Group on Aid Evaluation, the International Service for National Agricultural Research (ISNAR), Australia’s AusAID and the German GIZ. With its ‘ZOPP’-version (Ziel-Orientierte Projekt Planung) GIZ has put particular emphasis on the participation of stakeholders in the application of the approach. EC requires application of the LFA and preparation of the Logframe as a part of EU funding applications.

BUILDING BLOCKS OF LFA

There are several analysis steps during developing LFA. Traditionally, these are derived from ZOPP^* methodology are listed below

1. Stakeholders Analysis
2. Problem Analysis
3. Objective Analysis
4. Risk and Assumptions Analysis
5. Logical Framework Matrix (LFM)/ Project Planning Matrix (LPM)

In my coming blogs, I will explain each step in detail.

* ZOPP: is the acronym for the German expression “Zielorientierte Projektplanung” or objectives oriented project planning. It is a planning methodology (a set of instruments and procedures) for addressing the planning function in the process of managing a development project through

its life cycle.

Sources : European Commission (2004). Aid Delivery Methods. Project Cycle Management Guidelines. Volume 1. Brussels: EC