TEDxNoosa 2013 | Sohail Inayatullah | Causal layered analysis

1:116">Here’s a breakdown of the key ideas presented in this video, along with some additional insights on the CLA framework.

3:17">Core Concepts

• 5:131">CLA (Causal Layered Analysis): A methodology for creating deeper, longer-lasting change by examining four layers of reality:

  • 6:51">Litany (Data): Empirical data and trends
  • 7:61">System: Structures, processes, and design elements
  • 8:76">Worldview: Underlying ideologies, beliefs, values, and assumptions
  • Myth/Metaphor: Deep stories, narratives, and their influence on our perception
• 11:150">

  11:150">The Future as a Tool: The future isn’t simply ‘out there’ to be predicted. Our concept of the future is an active resource to shape the present.

• 12:207">

  12:207">Importance of Narrative: The metaphors and stories we tell ourselves about ourselves, our organizations, and our world deeply influence how we perceive possibilities and what we believe we can achieve.

• 13:98">Multiple Levels of Change: Sustainable transformation requires working at multiple levels:

  • 14:73">Short-term: Changes in data, trends, and empirical information.
  • 15:60">Mid-term: Systemic design and structural changes.
  • 16:64">Long-term: Shifts in underlying culture and worldview.
  • Deepest transformation: Challenging and reshaping core narratives.

19:23">Practical Takeaways

• 21:158">Measuring What Matters: If you desire a different future, change how you measure your progress and success. (Examples: GDP to Gross National Happiness)
• 22:119">The Power of Design: Environment and structures shape behaviors. Rethink design to enable the future you desire.
• 23:169">Examine Your Narratives: Uncover the deeper stories you hold about yourself, your organization, and society. Do these stories empower or limit your desired future?
• From “Inspiration” to “Monday Morning”: What’s one actionable thing you can do differently based on what you’ve learned? How will you incorporate mechanisms to learn from your actions?

26:16">Case Studies

28:71">The presentation highlighted several applications of the CLA framework:

• 30:166">Transforming Education: Challenging the factory model of education, making room for digital pedagogies, and shifting the narrative from control to co-learning.
• 31:132">Reinventing Libraries: Transitioning from “keepers of the collection” to “innovators of the garden” (digital/creative spaces).
• 32:150">Organizational Evolution: Examples of organizations who shifted from seeing themselves as “castles” to being more open, transparent, or focused.
• Civilizational Narratives: CLA can help uncover and reshape narratives that perpetuate limitations (e.g., gender roles).

35:18">CLA in Action

37:62">Here’s a simple way to think about applying the CLA framework:

1. 39:87">Vision: What future do you desire for yourself, your team, or your organization?
2. Layers: Examine each level:
   • 41:77">Litany: What data is relevant to this vision? What needs to change?
   • 42:83">System: What structures or processes need redesign to support the vision?
   • 43:68">Worldview: Are there underlying assumptions to challenge?
   • Myth/Metaphor: Is your core story empowering your vision or creating obstacles?