System change through collaboration for wicked problems : the framework systems thinking for social change applied in practice using action research for the system of brewers spent grain handling

Abstract

This research aims to investigate the design of a framework concerning wicked problems which can successfully carry out systematic change in practice. The methods used were action-based research applying Stroh's framework: Systems Thinking for Social Change to the issue of spent grain handling. Key findings from testing the framework include (1) need for an initial system overview, (2) the importance of mapping and rating the motivation, (3) the process of using the framework should not be linear, and (4) the need for a neutral philanthropic initiator and driving actor taking over the project. The new framework System Change through Collaboration for Wicked Problems was created to provide a more general approach of addressing these specific issues related to improving wicked problems. This research shows how actions for small system changes can lead to shifts in the overall system outcome. It also emphasized that more frameworks, research and practitioners of system change are needed to improve wicked problems.