Paradox Management Through Causal Mapping in a Workshop Setting

Abstract

This thesis examines how causal mapping can support paradox management as a problema structuring approach in a workshop setting. First, theoretical findings from relevant literatura were used to connect the three main pillars paradox management, workshops and cognitive mapping and to define optimum conditions and risks. Then, a workshop around a complex and paradoxical problem was designed and conducted with international volunteers. Its effectiveness was assessed qualitatively, taking various sources of information into consideration: observed participant behaviour, feedback questionnaires as well as the solution and causal map created during the workshop. Both, the theoretical framework created as well as the case study performed led to the conclusion that causal mapping can be a valuable tool and workshops an appropriate environment to manage paradoxes. Participants were able to gain a common understanding and holistic view of the issue, consider different perspectives, and ultimately agree on a satisfactory solution.