What is a concept?
Concepts exist not only in academic fields but also in businesses. Behind every good project is a detailed concept, that is, a precise plan. Developing a concept is necessary to plan, justify, or even modify a project consciously.
How do I develop my concept?
At the beginning, you should always clarify the purpose and objective of the concept i.e. the project. Additionally, you should consider the goals, target group, and framework conditions.
The method and planning of the concrete activity are also important. You also decide on a procedure for how to measure – i.e. evaluate – the planned actions regarding goal achievement. Finally, you check the communicative function of your concept.
What should my concept consist of?
When developing a concept, you should address the following key points:
- Purpose of the concept: What need exists?
- Goals and target group: Who is the audience and with what objective?
- Framework conditions, e.g. legal or social-spatial: What is the initial situation?
- Method, procedure, approach, and implementation of the concept: How can the planned actions be justified theoretically and professionally?
- Planning the concrete activity: How can the concept have an effect? How can the goals be achieved?
- Required personnel, financial, and material resources: Which resources are realistic and feasible?
- Quality management and evaluation: How can the goal achievement of the planned actions be measured?
- Communicative function of the concept internally and externally: To whom is the concept presented? Is it necessary to adapt the information to the readers of the concept, e.g. for parents, organization sponsors, decision-makers, staff?
Frequently asked questions
When do I need a concept?
A concept can be an academic work and thus a study achievement, e.g. a term paper or thesis. But even in projects in your future professional life, you will likely encounter concepts again and again.
What form should my concept take?
It is best to clarify this with your supervising lecturers.
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This article was published in August 2025 and last updated in February 2025.