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TRAINING (2.4.1)
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Context and actor analysis

This context and actor analysis proposes several analytical steps to explore how different actors relate to a (research) problem and to prepare the decision how to involve them.

Strength of the method:
  • The tool provides several categories to characterize actors: power, agency, expertise, concernment, interest, scale, roles, etc.
  • The tool outlines (visualized) formats to actor mapping, such as the often-used power-interest-grid.
To be considered:
  • This tool is a helpful source of inspiration. It provides several different categories to characterize actors, but it is short in proposing concrete procedures to perform the analysis.
  • You may opt for this tool when you want to focus on actors (whereas the constellation analysis also involves natural, elements, technical elements, and signs/symbols), and when the proposed procedure of the actor constellation (positioning exercise with the core team) or the NetMap tool (community-based mapping) does not suit you.

Read here about the rationale of the brief factsheets (in comparison to method profiles of the td-net toolbox).

Goal
  • The tool provides a brief and helpful inspiration to start thinking about actors in a research context.
  • The tool helps to identify, categorize and prioritize actors that relate to a (research) problem.
  • The tool helps to prepare the decision whom to involve in the process (with what level of intensity).
Location in td process phases:

In the beginning of a td process to characterize actors who relate to the (research) problem or during the process to expand/monitor your understanding of the relevance of involving different actors.

Bridging thought styles:

The tool sets the stage for future bridging activities. Knowing the relevance of different actors in the context of a specific (research) problem is a prerequisite to fruitfully connect different perspectives on a societal challenge and potential ways to address it.

Time required to implement the method:At least some hours, depending on how many people are involved in performing the analysis. It is recommended to re-do and adjusts the context and actor analysis in the course of the research.

Preparation required:

  • Organise material to document the analysis (Flipchart (physical/virtual), sticky notes in various colours, markers)
  • Documents/data that inform about specific context

Expertise required:

Knowledge of the context of a specific (research) problem

Convener & participants:

Convener: researcher

Participants: research team, stakeholders

For a detailed description of the method (online, open access), please visit:

Resource compilation in which it appears:

Provided by:

Tobias Buser

Recommended by:

td-net

Language(s):

EN