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Ripple Effect Mapping

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Ripple Effect Mapping

Ripple Effect Mapping Research Approach

Ripple Effect Mapping (REM) focuses on discovering and understanding the impacts or effects of a programme, project or intervention using multiple stakeholders.

REM adopts a strengths-based approach and looks at how certain actions or efforts play a role in causing the observed changes. The idea is to identify changes or effects and how an intervention caused them – this approach helps to visually map out the outcomes and impacts of a programme or initiative, particularly the indirect or “ripple” effects that may not be immediately apparent.

Benefits of Ripple Effect Mapping

  • It helps capture complex or evolving work.
  • It is a useful tool in identify on-going learning and changes over time. ​
  • It helps to validate findings across many stakeholders that may be affected or impacted by a programme / intervention.
  • Offers a space for reflection – often stakeholders find the REM process a useful tool for getting people together to reflect and learn from their activities.
  • Helps to empower individuals through realising the effect or impact of their work / activities. ​
  • But most importantly, it’s a fun and creative process and can really help to engage participants in research and evaluation!

How does it work?

REM uses three key principles of delivery. It combines paired interviews, mind mapping and reflection. As well as providing insight into the ‘ripple’ effects of your activity, it also provides useful maps to identify the ‘how’ and ‘why’. ​

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Example of ripple effect mapping with hands applying notes and drawings to a larger sheet of paper.
Example of ripple effect mapping with hands applying notes and drawings to a larger sheet of paper.

We specialise in inclusive and creative research methods such as REM. Please get in touch with the team if you’d like to learn more.

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Ripple Effect Mapping Research & Evaluation

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