NOAA Office of Program Planning and Integration

Objective-level logic models provide a summary view of how capabilities result in final impacts and the chain of events that lead resource inputs to outcomes (See Table D-1). The model provides logical linkages between Evidences of Progress, outcomes, outputs, activities, and associated Project Program Activities (PPAs) and LO/SO programs. The logic model also includes key gaps for each objective and provides potential solutions to fill them. When complete, it provides the basis for a fundamental performance narrative to justify existing or proposed programs.

When evaluating the strength of a logic model, it is not a question of pass/fail. Rather, the true test of a robust logic model is whether it builds a solid foundation for budget justification, and displays the methods behind that justification. It should clearly present what can and cannot be accomplished, relative to the NGSP and AGM, using base resources.

Under Inputs, PPAs affiliated with the Goal or Enterprise Objective should be included, as well as those PPAs from Primary Partners within the Integration Table. When examining the logic model as a whole, if gaps exist, a solution should be provided under Major Activities, using another activity or partnership.

For example, the FY2014-2020 Implementation Plan short-term outcomes (1-2 years) should be achieved by FY2016, while outcomes (5 years) should be achieved by FY2020. One or more outcomes may correspond to a single Evidence of Progress from the NGSP. More information on logic models in SEE is available to NOAA staff at https://www.see.noaa.gov/docs/SEE_Guidance_Memo_III_Attachment.pdf.

Table D-1 Sample Logic Model