Name the groups of interest, organizations, and institutions that can support various interests or oppose them. Enhance the analytical skills of the participants.
TIME REQUIRED
45–60 minutes.
RESOURCES
Flipchart paper, coloured paper, scissors, magazines, glue, sticky tape and drawing tools
ACTION
This method should be the second task used to analyse a specific topic.
Groups receive the required materials. Each group should have their own materials, paper sheets and pens, markers.
In their groups, participants have to create maps, which would portray various actors, who would support their ideas and help to solve their issue. Also, they have to picture those who could be opposed to their ideas. How these actors are linked together, and which external people and actions might affect the people pictured in the power map, should also be included. Discuss what you could offer to the actors supporting your ideas. Which people take a neutral stance on your issue? What needs to be done in order to appeal to them and to receive their support?
On the middle of the Flipchart paper, a symbol is attached, which represents your topic, questions or issue. Around this symbol place all the mentioned actors, their arguments and motives.
The activity is completed by highlighting the steps you need to take in order to incorporate people with power, appeal to the neutral audience, and avoid the opposition.
DISCUSSION
Was it easy to analyse power relations?
Why did you choose those persons or organizations that will support your objective or help in solving the issue?
Who are your potential opponents?
COMMENTS
We recommend using this method after problem analysis. This method is suitable as an intermediate task after the situation analysis, when you need to devote additional time to investigate a topic and gather information which can be used while preparing the action plan or solution plan.