Panarchy

When to use Panarchy

Use Panarchy when you need a group to understand the systemic factors influencing a challenge or innovation, especially when seeking to scale an idea across different levels of an organization or ecosystem.

What it solves

Siloed thinking, difficulty scaling initiatives, lack of understanding of systemic influences.

How to run Panarchy, step by step

1. Introduce the concept of Panarchy and the Ecocycle (if needed). Show an example and distribute blank Panarchy charts. 5 min.
2. Individually, list factors influencing success, from smallest to largest (micro, meso, macro). 5 min.
3. In pairs, translate factors into 4-7 levels and create labels for each. 10 min.
4. In groups of four, compare levels and finalize the chart using sticky notes. 10 min.
5. If multiple groups, create a single chart by adding unique levels from each group. 10 min.
6. In groups of four, reflect on which levels have received attention/resources and which have been neglected. 10 min.
7. Share reflections from a few groups with the whole group. 5 min.
8. In groups of two or four, explore one level in depth using the Ecocycle, assessing its current phase (entrepreneurial, bureaucratic, heretical, renewal). 15 min.
9. Each group presents their Ecocycle assessment of their chosen level. 10 min.
10. In small groups, brainstorm obstacles and opportunities for spreading ideas/innovations across levels. 15 min.
11. Prioritize the identified opportunities and obstacles. 10 min.
12. For each opportunity/obstacle, create a first-action step using 1-2-4-All to influence levels above and below. 10 min.
13. Share action steps with the whole group, placing sticky notes on the corresponding levels of the Panarchy chart. 15 min.
14. Use What, So What, Now What? to make sense of and prioritize next steps. 15 min.
15. Revisit and update the Panarchy chart periodically.

Materials needed

• Blank Panarchy chart handouts
• Large wall-poster or flip-chart version of the Panarchy chart
• Post-it notes
• Flip-chart pages
• Markers
• Timer

Facilitator tips

• Ensure diverse perspectives are represented from all levels of the system.
• Encourage participants to think broadly and creatively about potential opportunities and obstacles.

Common pitfalls

• Getting bogged down in defining levels - keep it practical and relevant to the challenge.
• Focusing only on obvious solutions - push participants to consider less conventional approaches.

Variations

• Use Panarchy for individual reflection by asking what contributes to a challenge at levels above and below.
• Combine with Social Network Webbing to identify key influencers across different levels.

Running it online or hybrid

Use a digital whiteboard to collaboratively build the Panarchy chart and capture insights.

What it produces

A Panarchy chart showing the different levels influencing a challenge or innovation, along with identified opportunities and obstacles at each level.

Origin

Adapted by Henri Lipmanowicz and Keith McCandless from the work of professor Frances Westley — source

Build a session around Panarchy

METODIC places Panarchy inside a complete, timed session plan — agenda, worksheets, facilitator guide and slides — matched to your group and goal.

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