A Theory of Change can be divided into:
- the change process and
- the Theory of Action
Whereas the change process describes our overall theory of how we believe change happens, the Theory of Action describes the intervention we believe is necessary to bring about that change.
Here we look at the change process: the processes by which change comes about for individuals, groups or communities. It describes our overall theory of how we believe change happens.
In the illustration below outcomes and impact together make up the change process.
The change process consists of interdependent changes in the form of outcomes and impact that form preconditions to the vision of success.
These Outcomes and impacts organise into pathways of change, where one or more changes may be necessary before another change can occur. Change thus results and evolves from chains of intermediate outcomes that eventually are expected to lead to impact and the realization of the vision of success.