Individual, Social and Material (ISM) Framework

ISM is a robust and flexible framework that facilitates an integrated, whole-system perspective of the challenges of change for individuals, organisations, and partnerships.

ISM is a robust and flexible framework that facilitates an integrated, whole-system perspective of the challenges of change for individuals, organisations, and partnerships. It fosters identification and development of options and shared ownership of solutions, taking account of influences on behaviours and decision-making which ultimately determine the impact of projects and actions.

Andrew Darnton (co-designer of ISM) spoke at the SSN 2016 Annual Conference on ‘Making Change Happen – the Critical Role of Behaviours’. In this talk Andrew gives an overview of the ISM approach and explores a range of case studies where its use was integral to project success.

Originating from projects commissioned under the Scottish Government Low Carbon Behaviours Research Programme, ISM has featured in the development of national plans and policies, including the current Climate Change Plan. A user guide to ISM is available from the Scottish Government.

Links to ISM resources:
Influencing behaviours – moving beyond the individual: ISM user guide

Scottish Government report on Main findings from the Climate Change Behaviours Research Programme

Return to our Behaviour Change resource or explore more
Behaviour Change
In the 2022 Progress in Reducing Emissions report by Climate Change Committee, it was stated that 62% of actions needed to abate carbon emissions by 2035 involve some form of behaviour change
Adaptation
Climate change adaptation means responding to current climate impacts and preparing for future risks. As Scotland faces warmer winters, hotter summers, more extreme weather, and rising sea levels, adaptation is essential to building long-term resilience.
Adaptation