Modular Participatory Backcasting

By integrating principles of modularity, participatory modelling and transdisciplinarity into the participatory backcasting approach, Pereverza et al. (2019) suggest a framework for modular participatory backcasting (mPB). The framework consists of 13 modules, each including various analytical, design, creativity and participatory methods. Although there is a suggested sequence of the modules, it is ultimately not fixed. However, some modules provide inputs to others and should therefore be implemented earlier in the process. The modules can also be implemented iteratively, making it possible to revise and further improve the module outcomes. This manual presents the 13 modules of modular participatory backcasting and the associated methods.

The mPB framework brings several advantages. It decreases the time required for learning how to utilise participatory backcasting within a new context whilst allowing for adaptation through exclusion, augmentation, substitution, splitting and inverting modules. The modular framework also makes it possible to integrate quantitative methods into the participatory process. Moreover, if applied within a long-term planning process, it can facilitate collaboration between academia and society whilst increasing reproducibility and transparency.

Some practical notes

As explained above, although there is a suggested sequence for implementation of the modules stemming from the fact that some modules provide input to others and hence need to be implemented earlier in the process, the mPB can also be implemented iteratively. In the sub-menus of Modules, the modules are described in detail, including the elements listed below. However, the modules can include different methods depending on the context and associated limitations.

What	A concise summary of the module and its core aspects.
Goal	The goal/aim/objective of the module.
Input	What elements from previous modules provide input to the current modules.
Methods	Suggestions for methods to be used to deliver the module objectives (goal and output).
Relative workload	The overall constraints of the project (including, but not limited to, budget considerations, stakeholder access, time frame for the project etc.) ultimately decide how much effort can be invested in the mPB process altogether. The relative workload aims to facilitate project planning by indicating the intensity and effort required for each module in relation to the other modules, thereby suggesting how the limited resources could be invested across the modules. However, be aware that the context of the specific case could have an impact on the scope of the modules. Note that the relative workload should not be interpreted as an indication of the importance of the modules.
Approach	Outlines the steps to be taken in order to deliver the module objectives and generate the module output.
Data collection	Specific comments/recommendations for data collection within the module (supplementing and adding to the participatory elements). For a general description of data collection methods, see Participation and context.
Participatory element	Specific comments/recommendations for the participatory element(s) within the module. For a general description of available approaches to stakeholder involvement, see Participation and context. Keep in mind that the participatory elements must be planned with foresight and coordinated across modules.
Output	The deliverables of the module that will serve as input in other modules and/or end products from the mPB process.
Examples	Example(s) of the implementation of and/or output from the module.
Additional comments	Things to keep in mind and recommendations.
Further readings	Recommended readings if you want to learn more about the different aspects of the module.