Hierarchical Logic Models as a Tool to Evaluate Programmatic Initiatives: Practical Solutions to Identified Problems

Area of Science:

• Occupational Health and Safety
• Program Evaluation
• Public Health Management

Background:

• Large programmatic grants are crucial for advancing organizational missions.
• This study examines the impact of hierarchical logic models in two National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) Centers.
• Hierarchical logic models support priority setting, policy implementation, and evaluation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the programmatic impact of using hierarchical logic models in NIOSH-funded Centers.
• To illustrate how these models align center activities with NIOSH goals.
• To demonstrate the utility of hierarchical logic models for strategic planning and evaluation.

Main Methods:

• Two NIOSH Centers (Agricultural and Education and Research) utilized a standardized hierarchical logic model process.
• The development process for these logic models was overseen by a single evaluator.
• Case studies documented the application of the hierarchical logic model structure.

Main Results:

• A hierarchical structure was established where NIOSH was the 'grandparent,' Centers were 'parents,' and cores were 'children.'
• Center-wide logic models linked Center goals and outcomes to NIOSH mission and objectives.
• Core logic models demonstrated the specific alignment of core goals, activities, and outcomes with the Center-wide model.

Conclusions:

• Hierarchical logic models ensure alignment with funding agency objectives.
• They enable clear articulation of linkages between different programmatic layers for stakeholders.
• This process facilitates the development, implementation, and evaluation of programs within strategic planning frameworks.