At The Social Investment Consultancy (TSIC), we often talk about, and support our clients on, systems change. But part of doing systems change work is to consistently examine our assumptions and challenge our mental models. For around six months, we have scheduled monthly reflection sessions on this topic. Here’s a glimpse into some of our discussions and what we learned.

What is ‘systems change’?
We think that systems change is about addressing the root causes of social issues to bring about sustainable, impactful change. Unlike traditional approaches that might focus on individual problems or symptoms, systems change requires a holistic view, understanding how various elements interact within a system. This approach often involves diverse stakeholders, including policymakers, organisations, communities, and individuals.

This involves not only explicit structural change but also addressing power dynamics, mental models (how people think), and other less tangible factors.

Describing systems change to different audiences
We often struggle to communicate systems change, as it can be an amorphous concept. The key is to tailor it to various audiences. When talking to other professionals in the social impact sector, we might use more technical language and focus on methodologies. For example, we might discuss the equitable evaluation principles which examine how historical and structural decisions have contributed to current conditions, or our USERS methodology, which emphasizes the importance of involving those most affected by an issue in the evaluation process.

However, when explaining systems change to someone unfamiliar with the concept, simplicity is key. One analogy used during the workshop was the story of Yellowstone National Park. When wolves were reintroduced to the park, it triggered a cascade of changes, even affecting the course of rivers. This story illustrates how changes in one part of a system can have far-reaching effects, a key principle of systems change.

Moving forward with systems change
These internal discussions have been helpful for the team to align our understandings of systems change, share best and emerging practices across our projects. By focusing on root causes, collaborating with diverse stakeholders, and embracing equitable practices, we can continue to make a meaningful impact.

We’re committed to developing new resources, like a systems change guide, and exploring pro bono projects that allow us to experiment with innovative approaches. Ultimately, our goal is to create a more equitable world by addressing the systems that perpetuate inequality and injustice.

Stay tuned for more insights and updates on our systems change journey. If you’d like to learn more about our work or discuss potential collaborations, please get in touch with us at [email protected].