2.1 When to use each diagram

For each diagram description below there is a suggested Activity which is itself an animated tutorial. These are generic tutorials associated with the Study pack T552 Systems Diagramming.

Influence diagram

I will use this type of diagramming	… when I want to:	Examples of use
	identify structural factors of influence (including actors or agents) differentiate between strong and weak influences identify what might be obstacles (‘bad’ influences)	To explore the strengths and weaknesses of the structural factors from different viewpoints. To identify factors that might need particular attention in order to bring about constructive change.

Activity 1 What is an influence diagram?

Watch the video on Influence diagrams.

Multiple cause diagram

I will use this type of diagramming	… when I want to:	Examples of use
	identify the process of why an event happened (the causes and sub-causes of a phenomenon) and hence the agency of change identify how these causes relate to each other through flows of causation identify a suitable point of intervention to support success or inhibit or reduce problems.	To explore the strengths and weaknesses of the structural factors from different viewpoints.

Activity 2 What is a multiple cause diagram?

Watch the video on multiple cause diagrams.

Click on multiple cause diagram to see the description of the animated tutorial.

Cognitive mapping

I will use this type of diagramming	… when I want to:	Examples of use
	reveal or illuminate patterns of reasoning about (or making sense of) a particular situation reach a decision about a particular option which will generate minimum negative consequences	To choose between various options for intervention in which the consequences of each option might not be immediately apparent.
There is no ‘What is …’ animation for cognitive mapping.

OpenLearn - Diagramming for development 2: Exploring interrelationships
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