Help It Happen

This framework is adapted from the work of Trish Greenhalgh on the diffusion of innovation.  Her classic meta-narrative included the original figure from which this was adapted.  Rumour has it the original was sketched on the back of a napkin.

Let it happen: This approach is spontaneous and organic, suitable for simple problems where solutions emerge naturally without much intervention. It relies on the self-organizing nature of systems and is characterized by unpredictability and uncertainty.

Make it happen: This strategy is applied in complicated situations where deliberate planning, regulation, and engineering are necessary. It is a controlled approach where outcomes are managed and structured processes are designed to achieve specific goals.

Help it happen: This method should be used in complex systems change, where change cannot be entirely controlled or left to chance. It involves facilitating change by influencing, enabling, and negotiating within the system to guide the change processes. This approach recognizes the complexity of systems and works within them to help direct the change in a beneficial direction.