The mapping of an innovation system should begin by defining system boundaries. System boundaries define some “reasonable” limits of a system.
In an agricultural innovation system, system boundaries may enclose something relatively simple to identify (e.g., a crop or commodity) or something more complex (e.g., a long and complicated value chain). To integrate systems thinking into the mapping process, it is critical to actively listen, engage, and learn from system actors themselves.
Once the system’s boundaries have been defined, users can then determine the locus/loci of the problem. In broad terms, where are the boundaries of the problem, and what are the challenges or obstacles to achieving success?
Consider these dimension as a way of reasonably bounding the problem of interest
- Supply chain dynamics
- Value chain relations
- Market niches
- Agro-ecological zones
- Watersheds
Broadly viewed, where are the challenges? Consider…
- Supply chain dynamics
- Value chain relations
- Market niches
- Agro-ecological zones
- Watersheds
- Technology designs
- Organizational cultures
- Learning curricula
- Policies and regulations
- Network relationships
…or some other dimension that reasonably bounds the problem of interest.
Example: Dentoni and Krussmann (2015), A Value Network Analysis of the Malawian Legume System
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