Four-Directional Model of Development

The model shown below is simple, yet reflects a great deal of work on difficult and complex problems. The process is iterative: activities in each of the four directions change relationships and outcomes.

Scaling Out

The diagram of concentric circles illustrates our model for scaling projects out. Like the ripples moving from the centre when a stone is dropped in water, the action moves out from the demonstration project, to clusters of 3 to 6 cities working on similar issues, to peer learning networks of 30 to 45 cities representing a wide range of different types of communities. When the results appear robust, we then spread the word through affiliations with membership organizations that are able to disseminate them more widely. For example, we have a formal affiliation with ICLEI – Local Governments for Sustainability (600 members) – and informal affiliations with other groups. Finally we use high profile events, media and communications to amplify our voices even farther.