Logframe vs results framework: what donors actually want
Oct 10 2026 · Donor reporting
They are not the same document. Here is which to use, and how to convert one into the other without duplicating your numbers.
A logframe is a 4×4 grid — activities, outputs, outcomes and impact against indicators, baselines, targets and means of verification. A results framework is a wider map that can hold several logframes plus cross-cutting themes such as gender or climate. FCDO and many EU programmes ask for a logframe; USAID, the UN and many foundations ask for a results framework. The indicator set is the constant: baselines, targets and means of verification carry across. If you need the other format, re-lay the same indicators rather than writing a second set of numbers. Keep one source of truth and derive the second document from it.
What is the difference between a logframe and a results framework?
A logframe is a single grid with fixed columns: results levels down the side, indicators, baselines, targets and means of verification across the top. A results framework is a broader map. It can hold one or more logframes, plus cross-cutting themes that do not fit neatly into a single grid.
Which donors ask for which document?
It varies by donor and by programme, so check the call rather than assuming.
- FCDO and many EU-funded programmes: logframe.
- USAID, many UN agencies and several foundations: results framework.
- Some donors accept either, provided the indicator set is complete.
- Always read the guidance in the specific call — it overrides general rules.
How do the two compare side by side?
| Feature | Logframe | Results framework |
|---|---|---|
| Format | Single 4×4 grid | Map or diagram, can hold multiple grids |
| Levels | Activities, outputs, outcomes, impact | Same levels, plus cross-cutting themes |
| Indicators | One set per grid | One set, shared across the map |
| Best for | Programmes with one clear causal chain | Portfolios, multi-component programmes |
| Typical donors | FCDO, EU | USAID, UN, foundations |
How do you convert a logframe into a results framework?
- Start with the indicator set. It does not change.
- Map each indicator to its level: output, outcome or impact.
- Add cross-cutting themes such as GEDSI or climate as separate rows or layers.
- Check that every means of verification still applies to the new layout.
- Keep one master file and derive the second document from it.
What should you check before you submit?
- Every indicator has a baseline, a target and a means of verification.
- Levels are consistent — no outcome sitting under outputs.
- Cross-cutting themes are visible, not buried in a footnote.
- The numbers match across every document you send.
- The format matches what the call actually asks for.
What are the common mistakes?
The most common mistake is maintaining two separate sets of numbers. The logframe says one target, the results framework says another, and the donor notices. Derive one from the other. The second mistake is treating cross-cutting themes as an afterthought — they need indicators of their own, not just a sentence in the narrative.
Keep a single master indicator file. Every other document is a view of it.
Where can you get a template?
If you want a logframe you can edit in Google Sheets, there is a free template. For building indicator sets and results frameworks that stay consistent across formats, there are tools that keep the numbers aligned. If you are unsure which format your donor expects, check the call guidance first.
Written for M&E professionals. Not a guarantee of accuracy — always verify every claim against its source, and let a named human sign off. Get the free handbook.