Logical Framework Approach in Steps
The LFA process can be divided into the following five steps:
1. Situation analysis;
2. Stakeholder analysis;
3. Problem and objective analysis;
4. Analysis of alternatives;
5. Activity planning.
Situation Analysis
This is a document that describes the problem or situation to be addressed by the LFA process. The information source is basically a status quo report from the
strategic planning process. It could also be a status quo report from a feasibility
study, a pre-appraisal report, or a compilation intended specifically for the LFA.
The situation analysis is a task for an expert, often an external consultant.
Stakeholder Analysis
Stakeholder analysis is a document which comprises a more detailed analysis of the people, groups, or organizations that may influence or be influenced by the problem or a potential solution to the problem. The objectives of this step are to identify and discuss the interest and expectations of persons and groups that are important to the success of the project.
The Stakeholder analysis is a task for an expert, often an external consultant.
Problem and Objective Analysis
Once identified, the stakeholder group should meet and conduct a facilitated
discussion to further identify and clearly state the primary or “focal” problem that
needs to be resolved. The group will then create a “problem tree”, which lists the socalled “sub-problems” that are related to or causes of the “focal problem.”
The next step is to reformulate all elements in the problem tree into positive,
desirable conditions – these are the objectives. It may then be necessary to revise the objective statements and the relationships between objectives to ensure validity and completeness, and to delete objectives which appear unrealistic or unnecessary and create new objectives where necessary.
The Problem and Objective analysis is typically a facilitated workshop. The
participants shall represent all the stakeholders identified in the stakeholder analysis.
The reports on situation analysis shall be distributed to the participants beforehand as a basis for the discussion.
Alternatives Analysis
The objective tree usually depicts several possible strategies that can comprise a solution to each sub-problem and to the focal problem. Since there is usually a limit to the resources that can be applied to the project, it is necessary to examine these alternatives and select the best one. To do this, decision-makers will first need to select criteria upon which they can base the analysis.
This step is usually conducted by experts, based upon the set of criteria suggested by the decision-makers (and consulted with the stakeholders).
Activity Planning
After defining the objectives and selecting a solution from a set of alternatives, the detailed planning phase starts. The activities that are required to achieve each objective are determined. Activity Planning is generally done by a team of experts or external consultants.