Community Planning: Methods
Diagrams
- description
- more detail
- more pictures
Diagrams and charts are a highly effectiv visual way to collect, discuss and display information at all stages of the planning process.
Individuals or groups use the construction of diagrams as a basis for gathering and analysing information. Fairly complex issues or processes can be represented simply if the right type of diagram is chosen.
The diagrams provide a focus for discussing issues - by both literate and non-literate people - and help stimulate creative thinking.
The diagrams are used for ordering and presenting information, prioritising issues, decision making and monitoring.
Making diagrams can form part of a workshop or be undertaken as an activity in its own right. A group diagramming process is similar to a group mapping process. (see also mapping) .
Individuals or groups use the construction of diagrams as a basis for gathering and analysing information. Fairly complex issues or processes can be represented simply if the right type of diagram is chosen.
The diagrams provide a focus for discussing issues - by both literate and non-literate people - and help stimulate creative thinking.
The diagrams are used for ordering and presenting information, prioritising issues, decision making and monitoring.
Making diagrams can form part of a workshop or be undertaken as an activity in its own right. A group diagramming process is similar to a group mapping process. (see also mapping) .
Photocredits
top: Sri Lanka, 1992, John Thompson
bottom: Kiambu, Tamil Nadu, India, 1991, Irene Guijt
top: Sri Lanka, 1992, John Thompson
bottom: Kiambu, Tamil Nadu, India, 1991, Irene Guijt
![Calendar](../images/p55a.jpg)
Calendar
Showing seasonal changes in work patterns by plotting peoplešs activities on a monthly basis.
![Matrix](../images/p55b.jpg)
Matrix
Assessing the value of different tree species by placing stones to score various attributes.
Tips
- If diagrams are made on the ground, photograph or draw them to keep a record.
- Involve people who are particularly knowledgeable, and involve as many others as possible. Facilitators should sit back and watch, not interfere too much.
- Minimise text. Use colour coding, symbols and local materials wherever possible.
Costs
- Few expenses necessary. Main cost: facilitators' fees. May be worth spending money on materials to improve presentation.
Common diagram types and their uses
- Calendar.
For understanding seasonal patterns, eg planting, tourism or rainfall.
- Flow diagram.
Showing the components of any activity and the linkages between them. For understanding the impact of an initiative.
- Matrix.
Grid allowing comparison of two variables. Used for assessing options and prioritising.
- Mind map.
Showing people's perceptions of trends and linkages. Used for collective brainstorming to develop common outlook.
- Network diagram.
Showing flows and linkages between people, organisations or places. Used for highlighting strengths and weaknesses in institutional relationships.
- Organisation chart.
Showing who is responsible for what. Used for understanding how organisations work.
- Pie chart.
Dividing a circle into different sized segments. For showing population structure, distances to work and so on.
- Time-line.
List of events over time. For understanding historical trends. - Timetable.
For analysing daily routines, street activity and so on. - Venn diagram.
Using circles of different sizes to indicate roles of different organisations and the relationships between them.
![Network diagram](../images/p55c.jpg)
Network diagram
Identifying institutional changes needed by plotting flows and links between villages.
![Venn diagram](../images/p54a.jpg)
Venn diagram
Showing relationships between village institutions.
![Mind map](../images/p54b.jpg)
Mind map
Showing perceptions of trends and linkages.
Photocredits
top left: Kiambu, Kenya 1993, Jules Pretty:
top right: Burkina Fasco, Africa 1993, Jules Pretty
bottom: Anon
top left: Kiambu, Kenya 1993, Jules Pretty:
top right: Burkina Fasco, Africa 1993, Jules Pretty
bottom: Anon