Guide
Results chain
Impact, outcome, output, and activity indicators — how each layer maps to the next.
FAQ
Frequently asked questions
A results chain links activities to outputs, outputs to outcomes, and outcomes to impacts. It is the causal model that says "if we do X activities, we will produce Y outputs, which will cause Z outcomes, which will deliver A impact".
A measure of what was produced (e.g. number of training sessions held). Output indicators are the most operational measures and are tracked quarterly.
A measure of the change caused by the outputs (e.g. % of trained learners passing assessment). Outcome indicators are usually tracked annually or mid-year.
A measure of long-term change at the population or sector level (e.g. literacy rate). Impact indicators are typically tracked over multi-year cycles.