Social System Mapping is an enhanced approach to network mapping that leverages the combined capabilities of tools like sumApp and Kumu. It's a holistic method that integrates system mapping, social network mapping, asset mapping, stakeholder mapping, and other related mapping techniques.
Essentially, social system mapping aims to visualize and understand the complex relationships, flows, and dynamics within a social system. Instead of just showing connections between individuals or organizations (like traditional social network analysis), it also incorporates information about resources, values, and the overall context of the system.
Here's a breakdown of its key components:
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Network Mapping: Identifies and visualizes the connections between actors (individuals, groups, organizations) within the system. This reveals patterns of communication, collaboration, and influence.
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System Mapping: Focuses on the overall structure and dynamics of the system, including feedback loops, causal relationships, and leverage points for change.
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Asset Mapping: Highlights the resources, skills, and capabilities available within the system. This helps to identify strengths and opportunities.
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Stakeholder Mapping: Identifies and analyzes the various stakeholders involved in the system, their interests, and their influence.
Why use Social System Mapping?
Social System Mapping provides several benefits:
- Improved Understanding: It offers a more comprehensive view of complex social systems.
- Enhanced Collaboration: By visualizing connections and relationships, it can facilitate collaboration and coordination among different actors.
- Strategic Decision-Making: It can inform strategic decision-making by identifying key leverage points and potential areas for intervention.
- System Transformation: It helps create shared understanding that can assist in facilitating systemic change.
- Visual Communication: The maps provide a powerful visual aid for communicating complex information to diverse audiences.
Example use case:
Imagine a local food system. A social system map could show not only the connections between farmers, distributors, retailers, and consumers but also the flows of resources (food, money, information), the different stakeholder groups (e.g., environmental organizations, government agencies), and the assets within the system (e.g., farmland, processing facilities, community gardens). This comprehensive view can help stakeholders identify opportunities to improve the system's sustainability, resilience, and equity.
In conclusion, Social System Mapping is a powerful methodology for understanding and navigating complex social systems by integrating various mapping techniques into a unified and insightful visualization.
