ECOSCOPE MATRIX
A map for understanding challenges in development ecosystems! The Eco-scope matrix helps analyse relationships between stakeholders, identify needs and pave the way for lasting solutions.
Developed by
Chintan Vaishnav, Dr. Anurag Panda, SELCO Foundation
Supported byThe DOEN Foundation
Background >
In order to create sustainable and inclusive ecosystems, many solutions fail because the ecosystem isn't ready to absorb them due to existing gaps and high risks for various stakeholders. The Eco-scope Matrix is a framework designed to address this critical challenge. Unlike traditional methods, the Eco-scope Matrix offers a comprehensive view of an ecosystem, mapping out all stakeholders and their interactions. This holistic perspective enables us to pinpoint critical gaps and high-risk areas, ensuring that the system is not only efficient but also inclusive. By identifying these areas, the matrix guides us in implementing strategic actions that foster trust and integration, making the ecosystem resilient and equitable for all its members.
What sets the Eco-scope Matrix apart is its ability to highlight and de-risk high-potential innovations that may face significant barriers to acceptance and implementation. By identifying these risks and planning for safety nets, the matrix helps build a culture of trust and inclusivity. This targeted support is essential for integrating marginalized and vulnerable communities into the ecosystem, ensuring they benefit from its growth and development. Ultimately, the Eco-scope Matrix equips us with the insights needed to make informed decisions, fostering an environment where every stakeholder can thrive and contribute to the system's long-term success.
Benefits >
Why use Eco-Scope
1
Map the whole picture
Visualize all stakeholders and their relationships and interactions within an ecosystem
2
Spot gaps
Gain rich perspectives into which relationships require more nurturing and patience, and which need more infrastructure
3
Define roles
Pinpoint exactly where the ecosystem is lacking and how your organisation can fill these gaps
4
Quantify progress
Monitor impact within the ecosystem over time and communicate to stakeholders and funders
5
Plan an exit strategy
Help the ecosystem achieve a self-sustaining nature, improving its long-term viability
IN AN AGRICULTURAL PROJECT, IT MIGHT REVEAL GAPS IN INTERACTIONS THAT NEED TO TAKE PLACE BETWEEN THE FARMER AND THE MARKET IN A MANNER THAT IT‘S A POSITIVE SUM TRANSACTION FOR BOTH PARTIESIN AN EDUCATION PROGRAM, IT MIGHT REVEAL THE INCENTIVES ACROSS FAMILIES, TEACHERS, NGOS AND GOVERNMENT INITIATIVES, IN ORDER TO ALIGN THEM BETTER FOR IMPROVED LEARNING
IN A RENEWABLE ENERGY INITIATIVE, IT COULD HELP IDENTIFY GAPS IN ECONOMIC VIABILITY FOR MARKET PLAYERS TO CREATE SUPPLY CHAINS IN COMMUNITIES WHERE ENERGY CONSUMPTION IS POOR
IN A CLEAN WATER INITIATIVE, IT COULD HELP UNDERSTAND THE INCENTIVES ACROSS DIFFERENT STAKEHOLDERS- HEALTH, INFRASTRUCTURE, EDUCATION ETC.
IN A COMMUNITY HEALTH INITIATIVE, IT COULD HELP UNDERSTAND THE ACCESS BARRIERS OF HEALTH SERVICES FROM THE PERSPECTIVE OF THE COMMUNITY MEMBER
How it works
Assumptions and definitions
1
‘Ecosystem’ exists in a specific region, and is bound by specific interactions, between specific actors based on rules and structures.
2
This tool is useful once a broad outline of the solution has been identified and validated on the field.
3
The primary aim is to provide a tool which helps understand the ecosystem conditions which is posing a barrier or can be transferred to promote the adoption of the proven solution.
4
Therefore, this tool is ideal for innovating on interactions and working models.
Try it out yourself
Drag the blue scrollbar to see how a matrix evolves across maturity stages
Nascent Stage
In this initial stage, the ecosystem is in its infancy and requires careful exploration and experimentation. The primary goal is to identify key stakeholders, establish initial connections, and test new ideas. At this stage, the Eco-scope Matrix helps pinpoint existing gaps and high-risk areas that could hinder the absorption of new solutions. By addressing these gaps and planning for potential risks, stakeholders can build a strong foundation for future development also building trust and inclusivity in the process. This stage is crucial for ensuring that the ecosystem is ready to embrace innovative solutions and avoid failures in the future.
Forming Stage
As the ecosystem begins to take shape and grow, the focus shifts to nurturing and expanding successful interventions. This involves adapting proven solutions to fit the new context, building stronger connections among stakeholders, and ensuring the system becomes more stable and robust. The Eco-scope Matrix at this stage highlights areas that require targeted support to de-risking and ensures that safety nets are in place. By identifying and addressing these critical areas, the ecosystem becomes more resilient and capable of sustained growth. Effective actions during this stage are essential for solidifying the foundation and preparing the ecosystem for further development.
Mature Stage
At this mature stage, the ecosystem is well-developed and largely self-sustaining. The focus is on replicating the successful model in new areas while maintaining stability in the original location. The Eco-scope Matrix helps monitor the ecosystem, making minor adjustments and ensuring long-term sustainability. It identifies remaining gaps and potential risks, guiding stakeholders in implementing strategies to mitigate these issues. By ensuring that the ecosystem is resilient and inclusive, the matrix allows for a gradual reduction in active intervention, knowing that the system can thrive independently. This stage is crucial to make sure that the interventions are being taken to the most marginalized and vulnerable strata.