Building a Change Theory

If we do our CaseMaking right, we’ll get to the point in every conversation where people will lean in and say, “OK, I’m interested. What’s the plan?” Before that door closes again — and it quickly will — we need to pitch our solution. That means building a solid theory of change supported by data and attached to a price tag. We can start by filling in the blanks to “If we do these things, we’ll achieve these outcomes.” It‘s also important to imagine all the questions skeptics might bring up in community meetings and have answers at the ready. Leaders who are skilled at developing and communicating a strong theory of change will build trust among a broader number of stakeholders.