7.4 Types of logic analysis

Two types of logic analysis exist. Choosing which type to use depends on the objectives of your evaluation project. Direct logic analysis is a theory-based evaluation that aims at identifying the contextual conditions and the mechanisms that allow the production of effects. Reverse logic analysis is used to identify the best possible options for achieving some specific results. It is about finding the most promising theory of change for reaching specific objectives. This type of logical analysis is useful for pinpointing alternatives that could achieve the desired outcomes, thereby expanding the range of possible interventions. It is fundamentally summative in nature because, in exploring different courses of action, it can either support or challenge the intervention being examined (Brousselle & Champagne, 2011). Steps for conducting a direct logic analysis and for a reverse logic analysis are slightly different.