Methodology

Exercise overview

Lay the foundations of the systems map

This purpose of this stage, which can be workshop based, is to identify the nodal variable or conceptual anchoring point around which the systems map will revolve and to explore the basic elements of the system.

Sketch out a preliminary core causal loop diagram

In this stage, the systems analysts use the output from the foundations discussions and from relevant research to build a series of causal loop diagrams that identify the elements (factors or variables) of the system and describe the interaction – or causal relationship – between them. Causal relationships can be positive or negative. A positive causal relationship means that, if one factor changes in a particular way (e.g. it increases) the factor it has a relationship with will also increase. A negative causal relationship means that an increase in one factor will result in a decrease in the second factor; or that a decrease in the first factor will mean an increase in the second.

The preliminary core causal loop diagram also seeks to describe the strength of interactions and any feedback loops: reinforcing (or positive) and balancing (or negative) loops. Reinforcing loops drive growth within systems, while balancing loops push the system towards equilibrium.

Evaluate the preliminary core causal loop diagram

The review of the preliminary core causal loop diagram is designed to test the initial description of causal relationships and to add detail by exploring the causal relationships in more detail. Typically, this means considering:

• the direction of causality
• the strength of each link
• the impact of each link on the dynamics of the system as a whole
• the certainty about each causal link
• the key mechanism that explains the causal link.

Develop an extended systems map

The outputs from the evaluation process are used to develop an extended system map which describes the key properties and domains within the system. This stage may require additional research, collaboration with experts or workshops to characterise emergent parts of the system that have not been fully described in the earlier stages. Detailed review of the evolving map can be carried out using questionnaires and interviews.