In line with the results based approach, greater attention will be given to the quality of results and indicators.
The Log-frame has to provide a good overview of the proposed Action in line with the basics of Project Cycle Management. It is nevertheless an abbreviated version since it contains a maximum of 3 main activities per result and no means and costs (all this information has to be provided in details in section 4.3.2).
This Log-frame will constitute Annex I of the signed Agreement.
Title of the Action
The title should be the same title as in section 1.2. (See explanations in 1.2)
Principal Objective
There is only one principal objective. The Principal Objective explains the longer-term benefits to beneficiaries, or the impact, of the Action. This objective will not be achieved by this Action alone and will require the contributions of other Actions and other players as well.
This objective should be in line with one of the specific objectives of the relevant DG ECHO Financing Decision but does not have to refer strictly to it, it can be more generic.
However, the objective must be in line with DG ECHO needs assessment and proposed interventions indicated in the HIP. It should be described sufficiently flexible enough as it cannot be modified after the signature of the agreement.
Specific Objective:Intervention Logic
Identify only one specific objective per Action. The Specific Objective is what should be achieved by implementing the Action, or the desired results. It should address the core problems or one part of it as identified in the findings of the need assessment. It should be defined in terms of direct benefits for the target groups.
The Specific Objective cannot be modified after signature of the agreement. The wording of the objective should be flexible enough so as to allow for future adjustments or minor changes in the Action. Partner should avoid data that might change, such as the number of beneficiaries, the exact location or sub-region of implementation, etc.
Specific Objective: Objectively Verifiable Indicators
A good indicator should be SMART:
Several indicators may be needed to give reliable information on the achievement of the specific objective, but their number should be limited (max. 10).
The indicator relating to the Specific Objective should help answering the question “How will we know if the specific objective has been achieved”?
In urgent Actions, these indicators can be less precise. But, if relevant, further details can be provided during implementation, once additional information is available.
Any request for revision of indicators must be submitted through an eModification Request and will lead to an exchange of letters. (see Fact Sheet A.4).
Specific Objective: Sources of Verification
For each indicator, establish and describe the sources of verification that you will use to assess your performance in delivering these benefits.
The sources of verification should specify:
Assumptions and Risks
Assumptions are the external factors that may affect the results of the Action but over which the Partner has no direct control.
Risks are negative or critical assumptions. Risks are situations that might impede the continuation of the Action without, however, excluding its further implementation. Risk is the probability that an event may adversely affect the achievement of the Action's objectives or activities. Include realistic risks that are important and that can be mitigated. Identifying the risks facilitates the request of modifications and/or amendment.
The assumptions and risks have to be monitored during the implementation of the Action. If the Action may be negatively influenced by a risk that will almost certainly materialise, mitigating measures that will be taken should be explained in section 8.1. In certain cases, Action should be redesigned or, if appropriate, even interrupted.
Results
Results are usually the 'products and services' provided by the project – or the output envisaged to achieve the Specific Objective.
As a general rule, each result is linked to only one sector (but several sub-sectors can be addressed).
Here, you should only list the results. Further details will be provided under section 4.3.2.
Results: Objectively Verifiable Indicators
Maximum 5 indicators per result.
Indicators should: be SMART, include target values, help answer the question 'how will we know if the result have been achieved?', include appropriate details of quantity, quality and time.
Any request for revision of indicators must be submitted through an eModification Request and will lead to an exchange of letters. (see Fact Sheet A.4).
Activities
Activities are the tasks that need to be carried out to deliver the planned results.
List as bullet points the 3 main activities per result. Additional activities and more details on each activity MUST be provided in section 4.3.2.
No information on means and costs should be provided in this section. That information will have to be provided under section 4.3.2.
Pre-conditions
Pre-conditions are the conditions outside the Partner's direct control that have to be met for the implementation of the planned activities.
In other words, pre-conditions are situations that may render the further execution and implementation of the Action impossible (and could further entail the termination or at least suspension of the agreement). Pre-conditions need to be met before the activities can be initiated and resources committed.