The 32nd Event of the Vienna Evaluation Network took place in Vienna on Wednesday, May 20, 2026, 5-6.30pm CET

by guest speaker Jan Hense

Topic: „It’s the theory, stupid!“: Pitfalls of program theory and logic models and how to fix them

View or download slides (PDF) here

Program theory has become commonplace in evaluation and program design, often in its simplest form of the “Logic Model”, which links inputs, activities, outputs, and outcomes in a linear “pipeline” sequence.
However, current practice frequently produces misleading, implausible, and unhelpful program models. Common problems include: unclear intended users and uses; cascading causal dependencies modeled as simultaneous; undifferentiated target groups; rigid or missing outcome differentiation; ignored temporal dynamics; omission of moderators, situational influences and mechanisms; underuse of relevant social science theories; insufficient plausibility testing and validation; neglected unintended effects; and careless visual representation.
This session will discuss three root causes which drive these problems: ritualized practice, insufficient resources, and underestimation of required competencies.
Drawing on practical examples, various remedies are suggested, including reforming funding procedures, responsible use of artificial intelligence, and capacity building.

Jan Hense is an independent consultant specialising in evaluation, program theory, and impact-oriented intervention design. A former university professor, he has a distinguished publishing record in theory-based evaluation and AI applications (see here). He chaired the German Evaluation Society (DeGEval) from 2017–2021 and co-edits Zeitschrift für Evaluation. As consultant, team lead, supervisor, and evaluator, he has contributed to numerous regional, national, and international projects in educational and other contexts. His teaching and facilitation focuses on program theory, impact modelling, and AI in evaluation.

WHEN: Wednesday, May 20, 2026, 5-6.30pm CET

WHERE: Médecins sans Frontières (MSF) Austria, Taborstraße 10, 1020 Vienna

We thank Médecins sans Frontières Austria for hosting this event. MSF kindly provide their facilities for the event and for networking afterwards.

The event started with a presentation by the guest speaker. After the presentation, we engaged in a lively discussion.