Mapping using Sticky Notes
Concept of mapping is identifying pathways of action or change around a project or service, we used sticky notes to identify different actors and actions relating to the Open Index Initiative [OII] , a service of IGIDR library, then drew the connections between them.
It is a very useful tool for planning or analysing of any new work project. What interested me in the whole process is how a product can be mapped using sticky notes on sheets of paper (as seen in the picture) and later arranging them logically to know about:
- Present status of project
- Role of developers and their responsibilities
- Identification of stakeholders or beneficiaries
- Expected change the OII can bring in for research
- Sustainability and future development of the project
- Drawing of assumptions, which could derail the process of change
I think this method can be effectively applied to library projects/products, before they are being developed to know beforehand what would be the possible outcome of projects/products.
spujar
The mapping process that Dr Pujar describes is a tool that colleagues and I have been working on to help explore intended outcomes of information based projects, particularly those with social change objectives.
It is an amendment of the Theory of Change approach, which is is an innovative tool intended to help in the design and evaluation of social change initiatives. ( See http://www.theoryofchange.org/ )
We have adapted the approach to creating a Theory of Change to make it more appropriate for information services and initiatives. We found that information based projects and initiatives are often less clear on their long-term goal in comparison to social change initiatives such as those intended to increase literacy or reduce child mortality in a particular community.
We find it particularly useful for helping to identify connections between activities and information services and long-term goals, it helps to identify assumptions, raise ideas about new activities. We use the theory of change approach as a basis for giving advice and support on all other areas; from new product design, website design, target audience identification, promotion, monitoring and evaluation.
We’re really pleased that Dr Pujar found it useful and hope to use this approach in future with other information professionals as part of our Capacity Development programme which focusses on Information and Knowlege Intermediaries who are working for development outcomes.
Catherine Fisher, Strategic Learning Initiative, IDS
Dr:Pujar I congragulate you for the creation of such an informative blog and in paving the way for a fruitful discussion in the days to come which I hope. It is useful and hope to use this approach in future with other information professionals.
With Regards
Sudarsan NR
sudarsannr@gmail.com
darsanshiva@gmail.com
sudarsannr.blogspot.com
sudarsannr.wetpaint.com