Causal layered analysis
What
A causal layered analysis shows the deeper causes, worldviews and convictions around an issue.
Why
Identifying the deeper causes, worldviews and convictions around the issue helps gain a more profound understanding of it. You will see where things originate and that there is more than meets the eye at first glance.
How
- Decide which issue you want to do a causal layered analysis of.
- Elaborate the iceberg model of the causal layered analysis on a whiteboard, flip chart, wall or table, or use the sample template.
- Identify the superficial, visible events and developments around the issue. What can you see of the issue? What are its symptoms? Place these in the top part of the iceberg model.
- Inventory underlying causes of the superficial, visible events and developments around the issue. Place these just underneath the surface of the iceberg model.
- Identify the convictions and worldviews that underlie the causes. Place these on a deeper level.
- Identify the metaphors that are being used or that could be used to describe the issue. Place these at the bottom of the iceberg.
- Draw lines between related ‘symptoms’, causes, worldviews and convictions, and metaphors, indicating the nature of the relationship (e.g. with a text, a plus or minus symbol or an arrow).