Thinking Big: How to Use Theory of Change for Systems Change

This paper is the result of an inquiry into whether theory of change is helpful or unhelpful for planning systems change. We looked at questions like: Does theory of change encourage organisations to think systemically? Is it a useful planning tool for those explicitly pursuing systems change? Can it provide the kind of constructive but fundamental challenge that is needed?  

We think that, with the right approach, theory of change can support systems change. We have pulled together our findings into this guide for organisations who want to take a systemic approach to their work.