This is an Eval Central archive copy, find the original at winderl.net.
Outputs are arguably not the most important level of the results chain. It is outcomes that should be the focus of a good plan. Ultimately, that´s what counts.
However, outputs still matter.
Just to be clear: Simply put, outputs refer to changes in skills or abilities, or the availability of new products and services. In plain lingo: Outputs are what we plan to do to achieve a result.
Ok, let’s be a bit more precise: Outputs usually refers to a group of people or an organization that has improved capacities, abilities, skills, knowledge, systems, policies or if something is built, created or repaired as a direct result of support provided. That’s a definition we can work with.
Language is important
When describing what you do, focus on the change, not the process. Language matters.
Don’t say: ‘Local organisations will support young women and men in becoming community leaders.’ This emphasises the process rather than the change.
Instead, emphasis what will be different as a result of your support. Say: ‘Young women and men have the skills and motivation to be community leaders’.
Make it time-bound
An organization’s support is typically not open-ended. You usually expect to wrap up what you do at a certain time. Emphasise that your activities are carried out within a certain time frame. So it’s always helpful to include in the formulation for example ‘By January 2019, …’.
A formula for describing what you do
To ensure that you accurately describe what you do, use the following formula:
Thomas Winderl, 08.09.2020
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