Output / Outcome / Impact
Different meaningsOutputs are what the work produces; outcomes are the resulting changes or benefits; impacts are broader or longer-term effects.
Output
Use when
You mean the immediate product, service or deliverable produced by an activity.
Example
“The project's outputs include a prototype and a training guide.”
Outcome
Use when
You mean the change or benefit that follows from using the output.
Example
“The intended outcome is a shorter application journey.”
Impact
Use when
You mean a broader or longer-term effect on people, systems or society.
Example
“The evaluation will assess the policy's impact on household resilience.”
Quick check
deliver an outcome, outcome: publish report, impact: staff trained
Usage note
Results frameworks sometimes define these levels differently. State the framework and use its definitions consistently.