They want to know the outputs of the supported activities and the outcomes the outputs lead to in the short and the long term. Successful communities focus on outcomes.
Planning starts from where a community wants to go.
Finally, the inputs of time, skills, technical assistance, equipment, space and dollars can be calculated. If the actions to get to an output that lead to an outcome are too costly, then another output that leads to the same outcome can be considered. This is a typical strategic planning activity, which builds on the Total Quality Management literature, which focuses on results. Implementation of outcomes-based monitoring has been resisted, misunderstood and problematic. The outcomes to which the sewer line was supposed to contribute include increased public health, a more diverse and stable economy, and a healthier ecosystem.