Creating Change

Nudges, models, and movements — explore the mechanics of change, then design your own.

Please come to class having engaged with at least two of the topics (free choice).

In this KNOT we will explore the theory of how change happens, how we can work together to create change, and apply these ideas to a case study problem. Techniques and practical theories on change, using a systems thinking approach.

We will explore a number of tools for change in the workshop.

Systems Thinking approaches foundational to change

• Places to intervene in a system by Dana Meadows
• The Iceberg Model, donellameadows.org
• An Introduction to Systems Thinking by George Richardson (hosted by i2insights)

Systems Change

• Thinking Big: How to use Theory of Change for Systems Change (PDF) by Abercrombie, Boswell and Thomasoo
• See the Taplin and Clark guide on Theory of Change (PDF)

Models for change management

• See the Wikipedia article on Change Management (Approaches), particularly:
  
• Lewin's 3-step model
• Kotter's 8-step model
  
• Deming's Plan-Do-Check-Act model
• Case studies

Change Planning

• Change planning: dreamer, realist, critic [web post on i2sinsight]
• A detailed resource by Holger Nauheimer is linked from the blog post
• Pace Layers by Stewart Brand

There is no formula for creating change, but there are a range of ideas you can apply. Develop your own repertoire and ideas on what works, and when.

Take one of the techniques from the workshop and apply it to a problem of your choice. This could be a standalone problem, or around your project. Include a brief discussion on how it may or may not be useful in creating change.