A
Vogel, I. (2012) Review of the use of 'Theory of Change' in international development. Review Report for the UK Department for International Development: London. Available at: https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/media/57a08a5b40f0b652dd0006bc/Theory_of_Change_Review_Report_Summary.pdf
IGSD review
This report is the result of a survey with development organisations and was commissioned by the UK Department for International Development (DFID). Lightly drawing on background literature, it presents its core elements, critical issues and provides practical suggestions (e.g. how to start, tips for the visual presentation and the stages leading up to it). Since it is based on ToC user interviews it also provides a detailed discussion on how it can be used differently. The latter might be of particular relevance since it enables a critical reflection on how the context of the proposed research project matches the different approaches in general. It might also stimulate thoughts about the extent to which the proposed research project could “learn” something from differently inspired approaches and how the ToC might help with complexity, open-endedness, and the need for adaptive and co-produced monitoring at the different project stages. From a pragmatic point of view, considering that DFID funded calls increasingly ask for Pathways to Change, we consider that reading this report is a well-spent couple of hours. It will also be useful for research teams who might consider adopting the ToC as tool for collaboratively conceiving the project proposal and use the resulting insights for informing other elements, such as the logframe. Lastly, the fact that this is a review report, itself reflectively analysing the views of interviewees from various development organisations and research institutions, increases its value.