TY - JOUR

T1 - Exploring the use of Soft Systems Methodology with realist approaches

T2 - A novel way to map programme complexity and develop and refine programme theory

AU - Dalkin, Sonia

AU - Lhussier, Monique

AU - Williams, Lynne

AU - Burton, Christopher

AU - Rycroft-Malone, Joanne

PY - 2018/1

Y1 - 2018/1

N2 - As the use of realist approaches gains momentum, there is a growing interest in how systems approaches can complement realist thinking. In this article, we discuss how the epistemology of Soft Systems Methodology is compatible with realist approaches. Both Soft Systems Methodology and realist approaches emphasize the necessity to engage stakeholders; through models, thedescription of contingencies and exploring the intricacies of how complex programmes really work. We outline the key elements of realist approaches and Soft Systems Methodology, and report on two novel case studies. Drawing on our own experiences, we make the case that, used in conjunction with a realist approach, Soft Systems Methodology can provide a useful tool to a) map programme complexity, and b) develop and refine stakeholders programme theories, thus increasing the transparency, reliability, validity and accuracy of the theory building and refining process in realist approaches. We highlight Soft Systems Methodology as a novel companion to realist approaches and detail the first case studies of its use.

AB - As the use of realist approaches gains momentum, there is a growing interest in how systems approaches can complement realist thinking. In this article, we discuss how the epistemology of Soft Systems Methodology is compatible with realist approaches. Both Soft Systems Methodology and realist approaches emphasize the necessity to engage stakeholders; through models, thedescription of contingencies and exploring the intricacies of how complex programmes really work. We outline the key elements of realist approaches and Soft Systems Methodology, and report on two novel case studies. Drawing on our own experiences, we make the case that, used in conjunction with a realist approach, Soft Systems Methodology can provide a useful tool to a) map programme complexity, and b) develop and refine stakeholders programme theories, thus increasing the transparency, reliability, validity and accuracy of the theory building and refining process in realist approaches. We highlight Soft Systems Methodology as a novel companion to realist approaches and detail the first case studies of its use.

KW - Rrealist evaluation

KW - Realist syntheses

KW - Soft Systems Methodology

KW - Stakeholders

KW - Systems thinking

U2 - 10.1177/1356389017749036

DO - 10.1177/1356389017749036

M3 - Article

VL - 24

SP - 84

EP - 97

JO - Evaluation

JF - Evaluation

SN - 1356-3890

IS - 1

ER -