Clarification of important aspects of the assumptions

Why introduce assumptions?

The intervention logic never covers the whole reality concerned. External factors often have an important influence on the success of the intervention, and should therefore be identified and taken into account.

What is the importance of assumptions?

Assumptions influence or even determine the realisation of results, project purpose and overall objective. Already in the planning phase, these external factors should be known and it should be assessed whether they are likely to become true.

How to identify the assumptions?

Some of the 'objectives' included in the diagram of objectives may be assumptions. Other assumptions may be identified by experts or other parties involved.

When do external factors become assumptions?

External factors should be checked on their importance regarding the success of the intervention. If of (vital) importance, and if impossible to include in the intervention, then factors should be kept as assumptions.

What to do if assumptions that are important for project success are unlikely to be realised (killer assumptions)?

Cancel or reformulate the project, by adding certain results or by modifying the project purpose.

How to formulate assumptions?

Assumptions should be formulated as positive, reached states, so that they can be verified.

At which level in the logical framework should assumptions be included?

Assumptions link the different levels of the intervention logic. They should therefore be included at the appropriate level. The level at which an assumption is placed, depends upon whether the assumption contributes to the realisation of either the overall objective, the project purpose, or (one of) the results.

What is a pre-condition?

A pre-condition is an external factor that must be realised before activities of the intervention will be started.