Cynefin Framework
Strategic Context
Useful for understanding the predictability of a change environment.
PDF: Cynefin Framework Diagram
Developed by David Snowden in 1999, the Cynefin framework (meaning “habitat” in Welsh) is a typology of social systems that provides guidance on how to operate strategically in each.
At Do Big Good, our practice focuses on complex systems (upper-left quadrant), where emergent practice, experimentation, and adaptation are required for success.
Video: Cynefin Framework Explained
As guest expert Jessica Conrad of the Garfield Foundation explains, there are no predetermined steps that enable us to achieve outcomes in complex systems. However, we can succeed in our social change goals by making small and low-risk tests of our strategy and assumptions.
Testing assumptions, learning from the results, and adapting quickly are core to Do Big Good’s advisory services for clients implementing social change projects.
Theory of Change
Strategic Planning
Useful for defining how a group will achieve its goals.
Video and Slides: Theory of change
After context has been determined, we move onto strategy. One of our favorite strategy tools, which responds well to adaptation, is theory of change, a visualized and/or verbalized set of expectations about how your actions will achieve your goals.
In this 5-minute video, you will learn about the many meanings of the term theory of change (idea, method, diagram, statement) and how they fit together. The slides below provide further explanation and examples.
ARC Logic Model
Advocacy Planning
Useful for understanding the basics of persuasion.
PDF: ARC Logic Model Worksheet
If the openness and flexibility of theory of change feels overwhelming, the ARC logic model might be a good place to start.
The ARC (Action ▶ Response ▶ Change) logic model is a simple theory of change diagram developed by Do Big Good for those just starting out in social change strategy.
This 2-sided worksheet includes:
A diagram for you and your team to sketch out the basic assumptions of your social impact project
A reverse side with examples and an “extra credit” activity on risk analysis
Video: ARC LOgic Model Explained
Before you begin the ARC worksheet, check out this 4-minute video on logic models as a tool of impact planning.
It explains the theory behind the ARC model and explains why creating a logic model is such an important part of planning social impact.
Double Diamond Model
Design Process
Useful for visualizing a problem-solving process.
PDF: Double Diamond Diagram
The work of social change often requires groups to solve problems together. Created in 1996 by linguist Béla H. Bánáthy, the Double Diamond is a design process model that illustrates divergence (learning, brainstorming, exploring) and convergence (prioritizing, synthesizing, choosing) in group problem-solving. There are many versions of this model, from the simplest to the most complex. We decided to make our own version, which we think hits the sweet spot between detail and simplicity.
Impact Cascade
Impact Measurement
Useful for collectively planning project evaluation.
PDF: Impact Cascades Diagram
Though we often only think about evaluation at the end of a project, it’s actually helpful to plan for it from the beginning. Developed with client Code for America, the impact cascade is a one-page strategic diagram that helps change-makers identify both the steps by which they will achieve their goals and the metrics they will use to ensure that they are on track.
Applicable to a range of social change projects, this public version of the impact cascade includes impact phases developed by Prof. Alnoor Ebrahim.
VidEO: How to Complete an Impact Cascade
Video: How The Impact Cascade Was Created
This case study video explains how we developed the first impact cascade with the Code for America Brigade Network, composed of 80+ chapters of civic tech volunteers across the United States.
Working with these volunteers virtually and in-person, we used a participatory design process to develop, pilot, and iterate the cascade model.
Bibliography
Reading List
Useful for learning about the theoretical underpinnings of these tools.
Our approach to co-design is influenced by many sources, from a guide to after-action reviews to adrienne maree brown’s book on emergent facilitation and mediation.
We are making these reference materials - and our notes - public through the citation management tool Zotero. You can view the Do Big Good bibliography online at:
zotero.org/groups/2280859/dobiggood
Do Big Good Quarterly Archive
March 2020 || Impact Work From Home
January 2020 || How We Win The Decade
September 2019 || Fall Into Better Impact Metrics
June 2019 || 3 Ways to Rethink Impact Measurement