Build your Theory of Change in minutes.
A clear Theory of Change is the foundation for every credible impact programme. Answer five quick questions and we'll draft yours, ready to export.
What is a Theory of Change?
A Theory of Change is a structured story of how and why your work creates change in the world. It connects the resources you put in, the activities you run, and the outputs you produce, to the outcomes and long-term impact you want to see.
Done well, it gives funders confidence, helps your team prioritise, and turns measurement from a compliance task into a learning loop.
- 01. Name the problem
Anchor the work in evidence. Who is affected, where, and why does the status quo persist?
- 02. Picture the change
Describe the long-term impact you want to see in 7 to 10 years. Be ambitious, be specific.
- 03. Map the pathway
Work backwards from impact to outcomes, outputs, activities and the inputs you need.
- 04. Surface assumptions
What has to be true for the chain to hold? Naming assumptions is where most theories break or strengthen.
- 05. Choose indicators
Pick a small number of SMART indicators per outcome so you can actually learn from the work.
The builder
Five quick questions. Each one unlocks the next.
What kind of programme are you designing for?
Pick all that apply.
Pick at least one to continue.
A Theory of Change is just the start.
Once you have your draft, the next step is putting it to work: choosing indicators, collecting data from the field, and learning from what you see. Folktale is the campaign and MEL platform built to help you do exactly that.