Development Cooperation Handbook/Definitions/Logical framework approach

The Logical Framework Approach (LFA) is an analytical and management tool which is used, in one form or another, by most multilateral and bilateral aid agencies, international NGOs and by many partner governments. It is a core tool used within Project cycle management ( is a term used to describe the management activities and decision-making procedures used during the life-cycle of a project (including key tasks, roles and responsibilities, key documents and decision options).

Concept
The Logical Framework (Logframe) is a project design and implementation tool, which allows for a systematic and logical way of setting the project’s objectives and activities. It is useful in all stages of the Project Cycle. The Logical Framework presents the causal relationships between the different levels of objectives, provides indicators to check whether these objectives have been achieved and establishes what assumptions outside the project may influence its success. As such, it is a key instrument in the analysis of the project’s impact.

The Logical Framework matrix consists of a matrix with four columns and four (or more) rows, which summarise the key elements of a project plan, namely:

The project's hierarchy of objectives (Project Description and expected Outputs) The key external factors critical to the project's success (Assumptions) How the project's achievements will be monitored and evaluated (Indicators and Sources of Verification)



Reference
/Definition pages
 * Project Cycle Management Guidelines": The logical Framework Approach
 * Logical framework matrix (ECHO)