How to use a systems diagram to analyse and structure complex problems for policy issue papers

Abstract

Many policy problems are complex in the sense that natural, technological, social and human elements interact. Problem exploration and structuring are essential as a basis for deliberate and focused approaches towards problem resolution. The results of problem exploration efforts can be laid down in the form of a policy issue paper. We have developed a systemic, stepwise approach, which has been elaborated and taught for over a decade to hundreds of students. This seven-step approach centers on the construction of a system diagram as a means to provide structure to the conceptualisation of a complex problem situation. The approach is based on a conscious combination of existing relatively straightforward analytical methods including objectives hierarchy, means-ends analysis, causal diagramming, stakeholder analysis, and contextual scenarios. The obtained insights are then summed up in a policy issue paper, which is the basis for further planning and research.

Keywords:

• OR education
• problem structuring
• policy issue paper
• policy analysis
• system diagram
• complex problems

²The first three authors work at the Policy Analysis section, the fourth at the Policy, Organisation, Law & Gaming section of the Faculty of Technology, Policy and Management of Delft University of Technology, The Netherlands.

²The first three authors work at the Policy Analysis section, the fourth at the Policy, Organisation, Law & Gaming section of the Faculty of Technology, Policy and Management of Delft University of Technology, The Netherlands.

Notes

1 Clearly what is explained here is a rough sketch only. Such a rough sketch misses all nuances, and gives only a snapshot of the situation at a specific time while situations may change rapidly. But the scheme does provide valuable insight in the requirements for and type of process that needs to be organized and gives a glance towards the recommendations.