Box.

Phases of Concept Mapping as Originally Conceptualized by Trochim (3)

Phase 1: Preparation

Planning group identifies a single focal question or prompt that will best serve the goal of the project.

Planning group identifies participants to generate ideas through brainstorming.

Phase 2: Generation of Ideas

Participants brainstorm ideas in a single in-person session or online.

Planning group selects core group of ideas from ideas generated by participants (no more than 100).

Phase 3: Structuring of Statements

Planning group identifies and invites external participants to sort and rate the core group of items.

Participants sort and rate the core group of items.

Phase 4: Representation of Statements

Consultants or staff compute a series of maps using concept-mapping software (multidimensional scaling and cluster analysis).

Phase 5: Interpretation of Maps

Planning group examines the point and cluster maps, generates a final cluster map, and agrees on a descriptive phrase or word that captures the meaning or essence of each cluster.

Phase 6: Use of Maps

Planning group relates maps and associated materials to the original goal of the project and produces plan for further action.