Logic matrix

Logic matrix
See also
CMM model PMBOK framework Project cycle management Feature-driven development Business motivation model Structure of enterprise planning system Methodology for strategy definition Strategic planning Managerial controlling

Logic matrix (logical framework, project matrix) is a method of planning, implementation and evaluation of projects, based on principles of logical thinking and introduces a number of tools for planning, creating, implementing and managing projects.

The structure of the logic matrix has been designed to induce the project's creators to present a logical connection between the activities and the goals that they implement. The logic matrix is ​​not only used to describe the project in a synthetic way, it is also a tool for improving its quality. Filling the matrix, future beneficiaries are forced to re-analyze their ideas and plan activities so that the cause-and-effect relationship between activities and their effects is the most obvious and probable.

Logic matrix framework

The logical matrix consists of a table that has four columns and four rows. The vertical system determines what the project is to achieve, explains the causal relationships and specifies important assumptions and problem areas that are beyond the reach of the project manager .Horizontal logic refers to measuring the effects of the project and resources used during its lifetime, by defining key measurement indicators and by means of measures that will allow the measurement to be verified.The stages and principles of creating projects using this method:

1. Analysis stage.
   • problem analysis,
   • goal analysis,
   • strategy analysis .
2. Planning stage
   • schedule of activities,
   • list of contribution and costs .

Logic matrix rules

• there is one main problem that the project is supposed to solve,
• the problem is not the same as project management, it is defined legibly and all partners involved in the project agree on this,
• both the goal and results, actions and contribution are precisely defined,
• the results are not the same as solving the problem,
• the goal and results can be verified using quantitative, qualitative and time-related indicators.

Advantages of logic matrix framework

• is helpful in the process of creating a draft sketch,
• focuses attention on the implementation of the project, and the implementing team allows you to focus on the goal and results of the project,
• identifies areas of external risk and methods of verification of project achievements,
• uses indicators,
• defines the superior goal of the project,
• specifies what we strive for in the project,
• defines the key results of the project and groups actions that are necessary to achieve them.

Disadvantages of logic matrix

• no possibility of experimenting during the project implementation,
• problems with adapting to changing conditions,
• problems in bringing innovation to the project during its implementation,
• impediments in the implementation of the project when an open analysis of the problem is troublesome and when the individual parties that are to participate in the project do not agree on the nature of the problem.

Structure of the logical matrix of the project

The logical matrix allows you to visualize the most important information about the project in a synthetic form. Its main advantage are legibly presented causal relationships of the discussed project. Analyzes the risk and critical points that can occur. The structure of the table, which consists of four columns and four lines.

• The main objectives of the project should be a projection of the main assumptions of the program under which they are implemented.They usually refer to long-term benefits for a wide range of stakeholders. Implementation of one, discussed project will not achieve the main goals, but will contribute to their fulfillment. The objectives of the project should be formulated in such a way that they clearly show the benefits they bring to the recipients of the project.
• The results describe the basic products that will be generated thanks to the implementation of the project.
• Actions are used to specify all tasks and activities that should be implemented to achieve the previously defined results.

columns.

• Objectively verifiable indicators, by assumption, should guarantee the same measurement regardless of the person who performs it. The sources of verification are the sources of verification of the above indicators.They include, among others, documents, evidence, reports thanks to which it is possible to assess the availability of planned indicators.
• The assumptions described in this column form the foundation of the project.They take into account external factors, including risk, which is an indispensable element of the project.

Examples of Logic matrix

• A Logic matrix can be used to develop a project plan for a new business. This matrix would identify the objectives of the project, the activities that need to be completed, the resources required, and the timeline for each activity. It would also identify potential risks and contingencies, and the evaluation metrics.
• A Logic matrix can be used to develop a marketing plan for a product launch. This matrix would identify the objectives of the campaign, the tactics to be used, and the resources required for each tactic. It would also identify potential risks and contingencies, and the evaluation metrics.
• A Logic matrix can be used to develop a customer service strategy. This matrix would identify the objectives of the customer service program, the policies and procedures to be implemented, and the resources required. It would also identify potential risks and contingencies, and the evaluation metrics.

Other approaches related to Logic matrix

Logic matrix is an effective tool for planning, implementation and evaluation of projects. Other approaches related to Logic matrix include:

• Outcome Mapping – an approach which focuses on mapping the outcomes of the project and how they are connected to the needs of the beneficiaries.
• Theory of Change – a tool which helps to evaluate the effectiveness of a project by focusing on the changes it is expected to bring about.
• Lean management – a methodology which uses a data-driven approach to reduce waste and improve efficiency in projects.
• Scrum – an agile methodology which enables teams to work together to deliver projects quickly and efficiently.
• Kanban – a visual approach to project management which uses cards, boards, and charts to help teams plan, manage and track progress.

In summary, Logic matrix is a tool for effective project management, and there are many other approaches related to it which can help teams to improve their efficiency and reach desired outcomes.

References

• Gasper, D. (2000). Evaluating the 'logical framework approach' towards learning-oriented development evaluation'. Public Administration & Development, 20(1), 17.