Introducing Institutional Mapping: A Guide for SPICOSA Scientists

Institutional mapping is concerned with understanding the existing distribution of power. Multiple forms of power might by employed by a stakeholder to influence the outcome of a decision-making process, including for example; threat, information, emotional claims and political influence. However, the power to influence the success or otherwise of the take-up of any particular management choice or innovation is largely held in institutions. Institutional mapping can be considered a narrower subset of stakeholder mapping and engagement. It focuses on the key actors, their interactions, where power is located, who has the ability to influence decisions, and who makes decisions and also examines their source of funding. Such maps show who has the right, by virtue of their office in an organization or participation in an institution, to tell who to do what.