What are assumptions, and how do they impact a theory of action?
Assumptions are pre-existing conditions we believe to be true in order for our program to function as planned. They can be beliefs about people (how they learn, what their motivations are, how they behave), procedures (how things operate), or the existing situation (resources available, the external environment). There are assumptions behind every theory of action, and by making them explicit you can better anticipate how they may impact the extent to which you can successfully meet your desired outcomes. Assumptions may come from experience or research and best practices, but in either case, need to be tested in your evaluation. Stakeholders also need to share an understanding of the program to avoid working under differing assumptions and at cross-purposes.
