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 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

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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.