Simplifying complexity through systems thinking

Panel: Measuring impact in market systems (November 7th 2012)

Richard HummelbrunnerÖAR Regionalberatung

Graz, Austria

Systemic or Systematic?

Systemicfocus on the whole and the parts Three core dimensions: Interrelationships Perspectives Boundaries

Systematicfocus on the parts, step-by-step

= +

Trivial or non-trivial simplification ?

Transformation

Internal state(s)

Input

Input Output ?

Output

Context

Consequences for monitoring

• Regard interventions as social systems Unit of observation: intervention and context Observe relevant contextual factors (scanning) during

implementation, in particular relevant actions of others Look beyond intended routes and effects, avoid tunnel view,

capture broader range of effects (irrespective of intentions)

• Different approach towards deviations from plan Do not per se regard as negative (‘correction reflex’) Do not treat as isolated phenomena, but connect with

intervention logic Information to understand the internal dynamics and self-

organising forces at work within target social system

Linear or ‚circular‘ logic models ?

Inputs Outputs Results

Mechanisms

Context

Needs /ProblemsIssues

Impact

Inputs Outputs Results

Single or multiple logics ?