Definitional Tools are important because they explicitly define what the initiative, program or intervention is and what it isn't:
- Describe the problem, concern or issue that is to be addressed, solved or ameliorated.
- Explain why and to whom the concern or issue is important.
- Provide relevant background information.
- Provide underlying theories and logic used in taking a particular approach or path.
- Describe essential meanings, concepts and philosophies.
- Articulate the benefits for children, youth and families.
The Definitional Tools that you create to construct your Implementation Toolkit may be tailored to your county, geographic location or organizational needs. These tools may include narratives, fact sheets, talking points, important statistics and other valuable information that show why the initiative, program or intervention is important and necessary to improve practice and ultimately outcomes. Here are a few examples of Definitional Tools:
- The American Indian Enhancement (AIE) Project (Purpose and Approach)
- Birth-to-Six Initiative
- Family Finding and Engagement (coming soon!)
- Father Engagement and Father Involvement (coming soon!)
To get started, use this blank template as a guide - Background and Information blank template
Logic models are graphic depictions of implementation. They provide a bird's eye view of the implementation process. Here are some examples: