Theory of Change: A Practical Guide To Social Impact

by Champion Muthle

A Theory of Change is a planning, participation, and evaluation process that companies, philanthropists, nonprofits, governments, and groups go through to promote social change. The term Theory of Change was coined by Peter Drucker in his 1954 book, The Practice of Management. He defined it as a form of Management by objectives whereby organizations identify and follow high and low order goals in order to meet their objectives. But what is a Theory of Change exactly? How has the term and practice evolved? And what are its major setbacks and limitations? In Theory of Change, award-winning Social Strategist and Entrepreneur Champion Muthle explores the history, evolution and impact of Theory of Change since its inception. The question naturally Do Theories of Change serve to further frustrate or compliment strategic thinking and social impact efforts? This is a question the author explores throughout the book as he unpacks the history, structure, models, measurement, application, effectiveness, innovation, and growth of Theories of Change, eventually coming to propose new models—based on simplicity, minimalism, and culture—to better meet the demands and realities of modern times.

125 pages, Kindle Edition

Published April 30, 2021

Reviews

[Rachel · Rating 1 out of 5]

Nothing about this is a “practical guide.” The content is light with no direction and is SUPER repetitive. It reads more as a high school history term paper mixed with weird autobiographical components. I kept hoping the next chapter would have specific ToC examples, practical illustrations/steps of how to work towards crafting a ToC, or even some level of data to support the clearly skewed opinions of the author. It never got there. If you’re truly looking for a practical guide when it comes to ToC, this is not it.