I am increasingly interested in learning/teaching myself methods for visualising networks and innovation systems in the context of intervention for ecodesign. There are a number of interesting tools and resources available such as network workbench, Pajek and many eyes. There are also some interesting low-tech versions such as Net-Map.

Net-Map is an interview-based mapping tool that helps people understand, visualize, discuss, and improve situations in which many different actors influence outcomes . By creating Influence Network Maps, individuals and groups can clarify their own view of a situation, foster discussion, and develop a strategic approach to their networking activities. More specifically, Net-Map helps players to determine

• what actors are involved in a given network,
• how they are linked,
• how influential they are, and
• what their goals are.

Determining linkages, levels of influence, and goals allows users to be more strategic about how they act in these complex situations.