Causal Layered Analysis (CLA)

What participants gain

• Analyze issues at multiple levels of depth, from surface-level symptoms to underlying assumptions.
• Uncover hidden worldviews and cultural narratives that shape our understanding of the world.
• Identify opportunities for transformative change by addressing root causes.
• Develop a more critical and nuanced perspective on complex problems.

Materials needed

• Whiteboard or large sheet of paper
• Markers or pens
• Sticky notes (optional)
• Timer
• Issue or problem statement

How to run Causal Layered Analysis (CLA), step by step

1. Introduce the four layers of CLA: Litany, Systemic Causes, Worldview, Myth/Metaphor.
2. Define the issue or problem statement.
3. Analyze the issue at the Litany level: What are the symptoms and immediate concerns? (10 minutes)
4. Analyze the issue at the Systemic Causes level: What are the underlying causes and structures that contribute to the problem? (15 minutes)
5. Analyze the issue at the Worldview level: What are the beliefs, values, and assumptions that shape our understanding of the issue? (15 minutes)
6. Analyze the issue at the Myth/Metaphor level: What are the dominant narratives and metaphors that reinforce the problem? (10 minutes)
7. Discuss the analysis: What are the key insights? What are the opportunities for transformative change? (10 minutes)
8. Document key insights and action items.

Facilitator tips

• Encourage participants to challenge their own assumptions and biases.
• Create a safe space for sharing diverse perspectives and challenging dominant narratives.
• Use examples and analogies to explain the different layers of analysis.

Common challenges

• Participants struggle to differentiate between the layers - Solution: Provide clear examples and guidance for each layer.
• The discussion becomes too abstract and theoretical - Solution: Ground the analysis in concrete examples and real-world scenarios.
• Resistance to challenging deeply held beliefs - Solution: Emphasize the importance of open-mindedness and curiosity.

Running it virtually

Use a virtual whiteboard tool like Miro or Mural. Create a template with four quadrants representing the four layers. Participants can add sticky notes with their analysis for each layer. Facilitate a discussion using video conferencing.

Expected results

A multi-layered analysis of a complex issue, revealing underlying assumptions, worldviews, and myths. Teams will gain a deeper understanding of the root causes of problems and identify opportunities for transformative change.

Build a session around Causal Layered Analysis (CLA)

METODIC drops Causal Layered Analysis (CLA) into a complete session plan with timing, materials, worksheets, and a facilitator guide — for any workshop, meeting, or team session.

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