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Systems Mapping

A powerful tool for organizing, visualizing, and disseminating a theory of change, systems mapping leverages the graphic, diagrammatic language developed by MIT faculty to model and optimize processes in industrial systems.

​Synthesis of scattered knowledge

By drawing on a range of traditional sources of information – from reports and academic theory to interviews with stakeholders – the team tasked with developing a system map synthesizes a theory of how the system works.
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Each relationship, called a causal link, makes up a building block in the understanding of the whole.

​​Gathering point for stakeholder dialogue

The map becomes useful when individuals who experience the system day-to-day can see themselves and their challenges represented by the map. Once the causal linkages can be seen, they can be understood, internalized, and challenged where need-be.

Framework for consensus building

Once a model of the current state is agreed upon, it’s time to go to work deciding upon how to shift the system to a more desirable state. The systems map holds the Leverage Points upon which the group will collectively act.

Communicating a Theory of Change

As a strategy for systems change emerges, a simplified map helps stakeholders communicate the intended action and the expected outcome, building support from potential allies and new stakeholders.
To learn more about engaging your stakeholders and charting a course for change with systems mapping, please contact us.
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World Economic Forum participants review key change initiatives in the Fourth Industrial Revolution (2018)

Featured Project:
​Osa Peninsula, Costa Rica

Coming together to build an economy that sustains one of the world's most biologically diverse and important locations. 

Featured Project:
​Cancer-Free Economy Network

Shifting the economy to rely on healthier chemistry through pubic demand and coordinated action. 

​Recent systems mapping clients: