Emma Ramsbottom - October 30, 2024

What is theory of change—and why might you create one? 

Designed thoughtfully, the theory of change (TOC) is a blueprint for impact that reveals how you intend to create change. It’s a living tool that thoughtfully weaves together what your organization, strategy or program does, why, for whom, and what you expect to achieve as a result. Theories of change can enhance organizational or programmatic effectiveness, facilitate strategic learning in collaboration with staff and volunteers, and guide compelling storytelling and marketing efforts among external champions of your work.

The process of developing the TOC itself is as valuable as the TOC itself: this work invites teams to reflect on and name the assumptions underpinning their organization’s mission, vision, and strategic priorities, articulate the essential building blocks required to drive progress, and align around a cohesive narrative for their organization’s core purpose and intended impact.  

Why start with an organizational theory of change?   

While all of the above is true for theories of change in general, an organizational-level theory of change holds particular potential for thoughtfully guiding institutions at significant inflection points in their life cycles. Examining and making explicit what the organization as a whole exists to advance and achieve is essential groundwork for ensuring that all programmatic activity is designed specifically to power those overarching goals and intended impacts. Taking the time to nest programmatic TOCs within a clear organizational-level TOC framework positions changemakers to implement work that is more deeply aligned, rigorous, and impactful.  

If you’re considering embarking on a theory of change development process but aren’t quite sure which level of focus will best serve your needs, consider the table below.

Through our coaching and consulting services, Learning for Action has partnered with a variety of social impact institutions to develop their own organizational theories of change. Connect with us to begin laying your own strategic foundation!