Using Systems Methods for Systemic Problems
A Case Study of Poor Lawyer Wellbeing
Bibliographic Data
| ID | 6423936 |
|---|---|
| Authors | Matt Healey (0000-0002-9618-6123, First Person Consulting, Melbourne, VIC, Australia), Marshal N Miller, Madelinne Miller (0009-0009-3002-7769, First Person Consulting, Melbourne, VIC, Australia), Joseph Lea (0009-0004-2045-0487, First Person Consulting, Melbourne, VIC, Australia), Lucy Fraser (0009-0002-5109-4134, Victorian Legal Services Board + Commissioner, Melbourne, VIC, Australia), Lionel Fraser (Legal Aid New South Wales) |
| Year | 2025 |
| Volume | 25 |
| Issue | 3 |
| Pages | 213-232 |
| Publication date | 2025-07-09 |
| Peer Reviewed | Yes |
| Open Access | Yes |
| Type | ARTICLE |
| Venue | Evaluation Journal of Australasia (JOURNAL) |
| Journal identifiers | ISSN: 1035-719X • E-ISSN: 2515-9372 |
| Publisher | SAGE Publishing (PUBLISHER • US) |
| DOI | 10.1177/1035719x251358851 |
| OpenAlex | W4412111227 |
| Language | EN |
| Citations received | 1 |
| References cited | 24 |
This article demonstrates how integrating a systems perspective – specifically through the System Effects methodology – can strengthen Theory of Change processes for addressing complex issues. Using a recent project on poor lawyer wellbeing as a case study, we outline the rationale and process for applying the System Effects methodology to map the interconnected drivers of poor lawyer wellbeing. Through this approach, we identified four multi-level problem statements that capture the most influential causal factors, providing a nuanced understanding of systemic challenges within the legal profession. These findings serve as a foundation for developing a more contextually grounded and robust Theory of Change. We reflect on the value of systems approaches in strengthening the rigour and relevance of theory-based evaluations in complex environments and offer practical guidance for evaluators seeking to apply systems methodologies in their practice
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System Effects
| Unique citing works | 1 |
|---|---|
| Citations per year | 1 |
| Citation span | 2026 - 2026 (1) |
| Citation velocity | current |
| Highly cited | No |
| Citation types | Neutral: 1 |