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
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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 ?