Outcome Mapping

Outcome Mapping: building learning and reflection into development programs (2001), is a book by Sarah Earl, Fred Carden and Terry Smutylo, with a forward by Michael Quinn Patton. Outcome Mapping focuses on intermediate results (outcomes) of change in behavior, relationships, activities, or actions of people or groups; thus the focus is on people rather than things such as cleaner water or improved economy.

Outcome Mapping is most effective when used at the planning stage of a project or program. The parts of the Outcome Mapping exercise can then be adapted into a Results Framework or Logical Framework. And, importantly, successful Outcome Mapping requires commitments in knowing the strategic direction of the project, type of monitoring and evaluation data needed, reporting, participatory learning, team consenus, and resource commitments.

Outcome Mapping has 3 Stages and 12 Steps:

The outline of the book is:
1. Outcome Mapping: The Theory
2. Outcome Mapping: The Workshop Approach
3. Stage 1: Intentional Design
4. Stage 2: Outcome & Performance Monitoring
5. Stage 3: Evaluation Planning
Appendix A: Sample Intentional Design Framework
Appendix B: Overview of Evaluation Methods
Appendix C: Glossary
Appendix D: Terms in French, English, Spanish

If this book sounds useful, you can download a PDF version of it under the DME Documents section to the right.