ABOUT
SYSTEMS CHANGE

An intentional approach to shift the conditions that hold the current system in place. By doing so we will catalyse a shift away from the old, centrally controlled and often colonial humanitarian system to a new one, fairer and more just, that redistributes power and resources among local communities and to those directly affected by crises and disaster.

Levels of System Change

ABOUT
SYSTEMS CHANGE

An intentional approach to shift the conditions that hold the current system in place. By doing so we will catalyse a shift away from the old, centrally controlled and often colonial humanitarian system to a new one, fairer and more just, that redistributes power and resources among local communities and to those directly affected by crises and disaster.

SYSTEMS CHANGE

Working at different levels of the system

Changing the humanitarian aid system also means working at different levels and scales. Recognising that in order to influence a dynamic and changing system, we need to intervene from different angles, positions and levels.

Characteristics of a systems change approach

This means working at a local, regional, national and global level - simultaneously. For us at Start Network it means working on a range of interventions, projects and programmes across these levels. For example: on community-level innovations, country or regional Hubs, national funding mechanisms or influencing international policy. All of which together can help to influence systems-level change.

The diagram opposite is taken from ALNAP’s Learning Framework and show the range of different types of intervention required to bring about system-level change.

Characteristics of a systems change approach

There are some characteristics of a systems change approach that are different to more traditional and linear ways of working.

Looks to addresses the root cause of a problem, rather than just addressing the symptoms of it

Acknowledges that everything is connected and that making change in one part of the system can have a ripple effect in others

Embraces non-linear ways of working, acknowledging that change is often unpredictable and requires us to experiment, test and adapt as we go

Seeks out new insight through the process and works to build new learning and knowledge into the process

Focuses on longer-term change - acknowledging that influencing a system and making change stick takes considerable time and energy

Requires collaboration across boundaries (organisational, geographic, sector) and brings in people at all levels to be an active part of the work

Doesn’t attempt to simplify complexity but instead looks to find ways to work with it and navigate it

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