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Systemic Analysis is one of several types of analysis that assist us in understanding the social and economic reality of which we are a part. These types of analysis are not usually separate or discrete. Each in some way includes the other and in some way complements the other. Each is important. The fuller the understanding we have of our reality, the more effective our work will be. We need all of these analytic methods.
Structural Analysis - Examines the organizational patterns of roles and functions established within a society in order to fulfill the tasks needed for its survival and development. These include, among other facets of group life, the governance, maintenance, development and security of the group. The analysis includes the inter-relationships of these organizational patterns (including accountability patterns) within any level of society.
Social Analysis - Examines a present situation, looks at the history behind the situation, and examines how culture, ethnicity, race, class, economic and belief systems impact the situation.
Systemic Analysis - Examines the operational dynamics of the social and structural dimensions of society or group. The analysis includes, but is not limited to, the dynamics of power, voice, inclusion or exclusion, and consequent benefit or profit, harm or loss. It articulates the starting points one uses in analysis, and clarifies the consequences of using any particular starting point. CREA has developed many sets of analytic constructs that facilitate this kind of analysis. Using the constructs raises the level of the analysis beyond personalities and blaming, and focuses objectively on ways that systems may be improved.
CREA offers programs to train participants in systemic analysis. The constructs are also used in CREA's publications.
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