This short extract from the MOTION handbook introduces and explains the Theory of Change approach as a structured way of thinking about how and why change happens. It suggests that a Theory of Change is not simply a planning tool, but a framework for making explicit the assumptions, causal pathways and intended outcomes that link actions to long-term systemic impact.
The extract outlines core components of a Theory of Change, while emphasising its role as a reflective and learning-oriented instrument.
Acknowledgements
Created by: Transformative Innovation Policy Consortium (TIPC); Utrecht University Centre for Global Challenges; with suppport from: EIT Climate-KIC / INGENIOS (CSIC-UPV) / AIT Austrian Institute of Technology
Citation
Alvial Palavicino, C., Matti, C., Witte, J., Brodnik, C., Keesman, S., Mendez, P.F., Penna, C., Terrazas, P., Costante, N. and Zinkstock, E. (2021) MOTION Handbook: Developing a Transformative Theory of Change, pp. 23-25. TIP Resource Lab. Available at: https://tipresourcelab.net/resource/motion-transformative-theory-of-change-tool/
Reflections on use
A Theory of Change (ToC) is a method that allows us to understand how change can happen as a result of an intervention. The method can be used to create a policy implementation strategy; monitor a project or a programme; and learn from and evaluate the results of a project or a policy programme.
