Typology mapping
Typology mapping helps categorise societal challenges based on the treatability of the problem and the people involved.
Importance of social entrepreneurship
This tool helps entrepreneurs identify which aspects of the complex problem they can address by understanding the nature of the problem and the involvement of different stakeholders. By understanding the complexity of the problem and solutions, as well as stakeholder interests, they can focus on areas where meaningful change is possible and tailor their strategies accordingly.
How to use typology maps to identify viable areas within complex problems to address with solutions:
- Vertical: the problem
- Horizontal: the persons concerned
|
Problem and solution |
What it means |
|
Clear problem and clear solution |
We know the problem and know how to solve it. |
|
Clear problem and unclear solution |
We know the problem, but don't know how to solve it. |
|
Unclear problem and unclear solution |
We do not know exactly what the problem is and how to solve it. |
- Identify the problem: clearly define the societal challenge.
- Classify the problem: Determine whether the problem is known and possible solutions are known.
|
Knowledge |
Interests |
What it means |
|
Shared and clear |
Aligned |
Everyone agrees on the problem and no one group has more power than the other. |
|
Divided or unclear |
Mostly aligned or indifferent |
The knowledge is spread, but people generally agree or don't care much. |
|
Divided or unclear |
Conflicting |
People disagree on the problem and have different goals or priorities. |
3. Map stakeholders:
A. Where is the most important knowledge located? (Who knows the most about the problem and where is that knowledge located?)
B. Do the stakeholders have different goals or interests? (Do managers and stakeholders agree on what they want, or are their interests conflicting?)
C. Who has more power: how much influence do different groups have (this affects the other two points).
4. Analyse the opportunities:
In what areas can you identify points for intervention? Identify where there are opportunities to make social impact.
Websites and templates
Read more on Ron Meyer's page below.
Professor of Strategic Leadership at Tias School for Business & Society, Tilburg University & Antwerp Management School, University of Antwerp