A systematic method to integrate co‐produced causal loop diagrams based on feedback stories

Jefferson K. Rajah and Birgit Kopainsky

System Dynamics Review, 2025, vol. 41, issue 1

Abstract: Within participatory systems dynamics, more practitioners are compiling co‐produced causal loop diagrams (CLDs) to analyse and report workshop outputs. Though not formalized, existing documented techniques have been limited to analyses of representations in single‐group diagrams predicated on, at times, untraceable subjective judgements. This paper addresses the need for a systematic method to guide and justify the subjective decisions made in the integration process. We propose a multistep, three‐stage process that synthesizes feedback stories from representations in diagrams (i.e. what is represented) and transcripts of the participatory process (i.e. what is said). This approach enables practitioners to report the interpretive scheme through which qualitative data are analysed and, thus, support the subjective decisions they made during the integration process. Using a case study, we demonstrate the application of this method and its potential for narrowing the semantic distance between participants, practitioners and external audience for interpreting and analysing an integrated diagram. © 2024 The Author(s). System Dynamics Review published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of System Dynamics Society.

Date: 2025
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