Project logic

Interreg Aurora recommend using Project logic based on the Theory of Change. Sustainability and communication shall be considered in all parts of the Project logic.

Define problems and needs  – Knowledge and background analysis 

What would you like to change?  A project should always be built around a concrete need, so this is actually the first step when working with the theory of change. We need to distinguish between ‘interesting’ and ‘important’ project ideas. The programme aims to fund the project ideas that are important for the region and that have a positive impact on society in general. Remember the cross-border perspective!

Which problems need to be solved and which needs do you want to meet? Understand and define the problems and needs – what are the underlying causes? There are many ways to perform these analyses: Lessons learnt, SWOT (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threats), Logical Framework Approach, Issue mapping, the 5 W-s (Who, What, Where, When and Why) etc.

Define the project objective – Input

How will your project make the situation better? How will your project contribute to a genuine impact in the Aurora programme region? Define your project objective clearly and preferably use the method of S.M.A.R.T. – Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound. Remember that objectives are not the activities in your project and not defined by the activities. An objective is defined by the needs.

Define the work packages – Activities

How will you achieve the project overall objective? Use your background analysis as tool for planning activities to reach your project objective and desired results. Project management and communication are activities that are essential in the project.  The project’s activities have to be integrated with the sustainable development and with the European Green Deal. Activities with a possible negative impact on sustainable development will not be selected for support.  Create a realistic budget and time plan for your activities. The duration and the tasks of a project are interlinked. The duration of a project is set according to the objectives and tasks at hand but is always limited and clearly defined. Regular projects typically last for 2-3 years, depending on the activities. Remember that cross-border cooperation can also be visible through the well-balanced numbers in your budget!

Define project outputs and an Exit Strategy

What will the outputs of the activities be? Measure your results using the programme indicators. Define an Exit Strategy to implement the project’s outputs and to ensure that results have a genuine impact on society.