Abstract
This methodological brief offers comprehensive guidance on how to study the core objectives (the what) of the ENFASYS project, which focuses on facilitating transitions to resilient and sustainable agricultural systems. Purpose: The brief addresses the central question: How can ENFASYS support societal actors in understanding and addressing lock-ins that constrain transitions to resilient and sustainable agriculture across scales? Methodological Framework: To answer this question, we have developed a process-oriented framework for systems mapping across scales. This methodology enables research teams to: Bridge Systemic and Behavioral Methodologies: Integrate different research approaches to gain a holistic understanding of agricultural systems. Incorporate Diverse Perspectives: Engage both the research team and stakeholders to capture a wide range of insights. Address Multiple Scales and Temporal Dynamics: Analyze systems at various levels—from local to global—and consider how time influences system changes. Structure of the Brief: Section 1: Provides an overview of the ENFASYS project, including its key components, objectives, and organizational structure. Section 2: Introduces foundational concepts such as systems thinking, systems mapping, and systems change. Section 3: Focuses on the practical application of the systems mapping approach within the ENFASYS framework. It outlines the flow of activities across work packages (WPs), scales, and time, presenting perspectives from the coordinator, WP leaders, and case study coordinators. Section 4: Summarizes the key points of the methodological framework, highlighting the importance of stakeholder engagement across different scales and over time. Outcome: This methodological framework serves as a foundation for actionable interdisciplinary research. By considering diverse perspectives, multiple scales of analysis and action, and temporal factors, it equips societal actors with the tools to identify and overcome systemic lock-ins. This facilitates the transition toward resilient and sustainable agricultural systems, aligning with the goals of the ENFASYS project.