Flowscape
Understand and change perceptions
A flowscape is a framework for understanding and changing perceptions. It involves creating a map of perceptions, identifying collector points and loops, and using these to generate new ideas and perspectives.
- Perceptions are highly individual and can be influenced by context and experience
- Collector points and loops can be used to understand and change perceptions
- The flowscape is a hypothesis or suggestion, rather than a definitive description of reality
- Create a Base ListStart by creating a list of items related to the problem or topic at hand. This list should be a stream of consciousness, without judgment or analysis.Pro tipUse a brainstorming session to generate the listWarningAvoid self-censoring or judging items too quickly
- Make Flow ConnectionsTake the base list and make flow connections between the items. This can be done by identifying relationships between the items and using these relationships to generate new ideas.Pro tipUse mind mapping or clustering to identify relationships between itemsWarningBe careful not to get too caught up in the details
- Identify Collector Points and LoopsUse the flowscape to identify collector points and loops. These are areas where perceptions tend to dominate or stabilize.Pro tipLook for areas where multiple items are connectedWarningAvoid getting too caught up in the details
Understanding Perceptions of a New Product
Using a flowscape to understand perceptions of a new product
OutcomeGenerated a list of new ideas for marketing and promoting the product
Changing Perceptions of a Social Issue
Using a flowscape to change perceptions of a social issue
OutcomeGenerated a list of new ideas for addressing the issue
Not Creating a Comprehensive Base List
Failing to create a comprehensive base list can limit the effectiveness of the flowscape
Not Making Flow Connections
Failing to make flow connections between items can limit the generation of new ideas
Not Identifying Collector Points and Loops
Failing to identify collector points and loops can limit the understanding of perceptions
The flowscape was developed as a way to facilitate understanding and changing perceptions. It is based on the idea that perceptions are highly individual and can be influenced by context and experience.
Source · BOOK
Flowscapes