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The Multi-Pattern Approach for Systematic Analysis of Transition Pathways

Author

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  • Fjalar J. De Haan

    (Melbourne School of Design, Faculty of Architecture, Building and Planning, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, VIC 3010, Australia
    These authors contributed equally to this work.)

  • Briony C. Rogers

    (School of Social Sciences, Faculty of Arts, Monash University, Clayton, VIC 3800, Australia
    These authors contributed equally to this work.)

Abstract

Pathways have become a central notion in various areas of research, amongst which are the studies of transitions to sustainability. Though various typologies and concepts are available, a framework for systematic analysis of transition pathways is lacking. We present the Multi-Pattern Approach (MPA) to fill this lacuna and provide a step-by-step manual for its application. The MPA addresses a range of traditional challenges of transitions’ pathway analysis, such as temporal and functional system demarcation and the unravelling of complex, interrelated systemic storylines. The approach provides an oft-called for rigour which allows a diagrammatic and formulaic representation of transitions’ pathways. Because of these qualities, the approach allows systematic cross-case comparison and provides a bridge between narrative-based and computational transitions research. The approach is demonstrated with an in-depth empirical case study of water management in Melbourne, Australia over the last 180 years. The article first presents a high-level mapping of the system’s evolution over time and a detailed analysis of the uptake and phasing out of specific servicing technologies and practices.

Suggested Citation

  • Fjalar J. De Haan & Briony C. Rogers, 2019. "The Multi-Pattern Approach for Systematic Analysis of Transition Pathways," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 11(2), pages 1-30, January.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jsusta:v:11:y:2019:i:2:p:318-:d:196346
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    Cited by:

    1. Gustavo Bermejo-Martín & Carlos Rodríguez-Monroy, 2019. "Sustainability and Water Sensitive Cities: Analysis for Intermediary Cities in Andalusia," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 11(17), pages 1-25, August.
    2. Felix R. B. Twinomucunguzi & Philip M. Nyenje & Robinah N. Kulabako & Swaib Semiyaga & Jan Willem Foppen & Frank Kansiime, 2020. "Reducing Groundwater Contamination from On-Site Sanitation in Peri-Urban Sub-Saharan Africa: Reviewing Transition Management Attributes towards Implementation of Water Safety Plans," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 12(10), pages 1-21, May.
    3. Peter W. Newton & Briony C. Rogers, 2020. "Transforming Built Environments: Towards Carbon Neutral and Blue-Green Cities," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 12(11), pages 1-25, June.

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