Logical Framework Approach in Project Planning

Abstract Topic 1

In Project Portfolio Management (PPM) a four step process enables the organization to make rational decisions and optimize the resource allocation to the different projects and programs. This process consists of the identification and categorization of projects, evaluation and prioritization of projects, authorization of projects, and lastly the consolidation and revision of portfolio reports.

Abstract Topic 2

The Logical Framework Approach (LFA) is a project planning, design and evaluation methodology, and a product of a U.S. Agency for International Development initiative in 1969, which aimed at analyzing and diagnosing their project evaluation system. The study revealed three underlying problems the planning were too vague, management responsibility were unclear, and that project evaluation were an adversary process. The LFA were thereby became a response to these problems.

In the LFA the project development process viewed a hierarchy of events and assumptions related to those events. The overall goal is reached, if the projects purpose is achieved, which is realized, if the output is produced, which is then again produced, if the activities take place. This goal oriented planning forces the project members to think through the project's logic, and what might influence the performance. It is exactly this structured approach, which is a major strength of the LFA. It makes the project overview is easy to acquire, and performance indicators can be identified for monitoring and evaluation.

As it is with all methodologies, the LFA does have downsides. These concerns, as an example, its inability to change with the changing environmental conditions, due to its way of considering projects as having a linear predetermined path with accompanying targets. Naturally this article will in addition to describing the use of an LFA, suggest to various possible improvements to