“Evaluating Stakeholder Consensus: An Analysis of Group Model Building and Participatory modelling Methods”
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2024-10-29
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en
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This thesis investigates the role of stakeholder engagement and ease of implementation in achieving consensus during Group Model Building (GMB) and Participatory Modelling (PM) processes. GMB, rooted in System Dynamics, and PM, utilizing diverse modelling approaches, are participatory methodologies that aim to facilitate collaborative decision-making in complex organisational and environmental contexts. The study addresses a critical gap in understanding how these methods influence consensus-building among diverse stakeholders by conducting a systematic literature review of 17 empirical studies encompassing 26 case studies.
The research evaluates GMB and PM across three dimensions: stakeholder engagement, ease of implementation, and their combined impact on consensus-building. Stakeholder engagement is analyzed through levels of involvement, diversity of educational and socioeconomical backgrounds, and sense of ownership, while ease of implementation considers resource demands, methodological simplicity, and adaptability. A thematic analysis highlights key patterns, advantages, and limitations of both methods in fostering shared understanding and sustainable agreements.
Findings indicate that both GMB and PM effectively enhance stakeholder participation and foster inclusivity, but their success varies based on facilitation quality, stakeholder dynamics, and resource availability. GMB demonstrates strength in structured facilitation and consensus on systemic problems, while PM offers flexibility and broader methodological application, albeit with higher complexity. Challenges include managing power dynamics, sustaining long-term consensus, and addressing implementation barriers in resource-limited settings.
This study contributes to theoretical and practical understanding by synthesizing evidence on participatory modelling's efficacy and limitations. Recommendations for future research include developing frameworks to address power dynamics, measuring long-term consensus durability, and improving accessibility of these methodologies for diverse applications. The insights support organisations and practitioners in leveraging participatory modelling for inclusive, effective decision-making and collaborative problem-solving in multi-stakeholder environments.
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Faculteit der Managementwetenschappen