Behaviour change programmes / Free tools
Free theory of change template
The one-page template I use with clients, plus a worked example based on Play Aid’s Gamers vs. Depression programme. Yours to use, adapt and share, whether or not we ever work together. No sign-up needed.
What is a theory of change?
A theory of change explains how and why your programme will lead to the change you want. It names who needs to do what differently, what you’ll do to help, how you’ll know it’s working, and what has to be true along the way.
Most theories of change are written to win funding and then forgotten. This template is built to be used: it starts with behaviour, works across four levels of change (the individual, culture, structures and infrastructure), and asks who benefits and who could lose out.
Theory of change or logic model?
A logic model lists your inputs, activities, outputs and outcomes in a line. A theory of change explains why each step should lead to the next, and what must be true for it to happen. If you have a logic model already, this template helps you test the thinking behind it.
How to use it
Start with the problem and the behaviour.
Be specific: who needs to do what differently, when and where? If you can’t observe it, you can’t change it or measure it.
Work through all four levels.
Training alone rarely changes behaviour. Check what culture, structures and infrastructure need to change too.
Test your assumptions.
Write down what must be true for each step to work, and which assumption you’re least sure of. That’s where to look first.
Want help building yours?
I run half-day theory of change workshops built around your programme. You leave with a theory of change your team will actually use.
Ask about a workshop