What is causal mapping?
Causal mapping template for strategic planning
A causal map is a type of concept map in which the links between nodes represent causality or influence. Causal mapping is the process of creating a causal map. When done by an individual to clarify their own thinking, it is referred to as “cognitive mapping”. It may be called “oval mapping” when done by a group, named after the small oval pieces of paper containing each idea.
What is causal mapping good for?
Table comparing dialogue mapping and causal mapping
The most detailed and formal form of causal mapping is used as an aid to strategic thinking and planning as described by John Bryson et al. in Visible Thinking.
What are some examples of causal mapping?
Causal map illustrating application of adult learning principles
Click on any of the images on this page for examples on this site.
Where can I learn more about causal mapping?
Websites
Books
Visible Thinking: Unlocking causal mapping for practical business results, John M. Bryson, Fran Ackermann, Colin Eden, Charles B. Finn, 2004, John Wiley & Sons, Chichester, West Sussex, England
Chapter 7 in Thinking Visually: Business Applications of 14 Core Diagrams, Malcolm Craig, Ph.D., 2000, Continuum, London and New York
Chapter 7 in The Thinker’s Toolkit: 14 Powerful Techniques for Problem Solving, Morgan D. Jones, 1998, Three Rivers Press, NY, NY