ISM Principles of Change
The ISM - Individual, Social, and Material - model is a multi-disciplinary tool to study the human behaviour in the aspects of: behavioural economics, social psychology and sociology [GovScot.]. The model facilitates an integrated, whole-system perspective of the challenges of individuals, organizations, and partnerships. Through the process, stakeholders aim to develop a shared understanding by identifying their respective roles in bringing about change. Hereby, the model draws insight from multiple disciplines to ease the decision-making of complex problems [sustain.]. The result is a shared ownership of solutions. This is a vital part of project management to succesfully transferring ownership to operations in all kind of projects [PMI].
The ISM tool was developed by researcher Andrew Darnton and launched by the Scottish Government in 2013 to evaluate the impact of sustainability challenges in certain projects [ISM]. Since it has found use for policy makers and practicioners to influence people's behaviours and bring about change [Govscot.].
- Background
- The three aspects
- Usage
- Limitations
- References
It fosters identification and development of options and shared ownership of solutions, taking account of influences on behaviours and decision-making which ultimately determine the impact of projects and actions.