Measurement and accountability Logic models are a tool for specifying how a program's activities lead to measurable outcomes. Specific, measurable outcomes give health programs accountability and show where changes can be made for improvement. Measurement and continual improvement are the cornerstones of accountable governmental process.

Principles of accountability

• Measuring results tells success from failure
• If success isn't measured, it can't be rewarded
• If failure isn't measured, it can't be corrected
• Demonstrable success creates public support

Reinventing Government, Osborne and Gaebler, 1992

Logic model basics

A basic logic model shows a timeline of how inputs (resources) are used in activities (outputs) to lead to results with measurable outcomes:

Logic model layout INPUTS ACTIVITIES OUTCOMES

The complete logic model

Our logic models extend each of these sections with details specific to the program. We also designate any supporting factors (infrastructure) and evaluation that takes place as the program progresses.

Our logic models typically contain specifications like the following:

Logic model template INPUTS Resources ACTIVITIES Actions & Results OUTCOMES Short-term Intermediate Long-term What we invest Funds Guidance Equipment Staff What we do Partner Surveillance Research Reporting What we measure Education Awareness   Health improvement Behavior changes Cost savings Participation   Social impact Community action     Infrastructure Resource and support details   Measurement and feedback Ongoing monitoring, evaluation and improvement

Logic Models at MDH

We are in the process of making the logic models for all our funded programs publically available on-line. You can examine any of them in our Logic Models area.

View MDH logic models