What is causal mapping?

A causal map is a type of concept map in which the links between nodes represent causality or influence. Causal mapping is the process of creating a causal map. When done by an individual to clarify their own thinking, it is referred to as "cognitive mapping". It may be called "oval mapping" when done by a group, named after the small oval pieces of paper containing each idea.

What is causal mapping good for?

The most detailed and formal form of causal mapping is used as an aid to strategic thinking and planning as described by John Bryson et al. in Visible Thinking.

What are some examples of causal mapping?

Click on any of the thumbnails to the right for examples on this site.

Where can I learn more about causal mapping?

Websites

Books
Visible Thinking: Unlocking causal mapping for practical business results, John M. Bryson, Fran Ackermann, Colin Eden, Charles B. Finn, 2004, John Wiley & Sons, Chichester, West Sussex, England

Chapter 7 in Thinking Visually: Business Applications of 14 Core Diagrams, Malcolm Craig, Ph.D., 2000, Continuum, London and New York

Chapter 7 in The Thinker's Toolkit: 14 Powerful Techniques for Problem Solving, Morgan D. Jones, 1998, Three Rivers Press, NY, NY