Knowledge Maps: Seeing the Whole Picture

What if your logic model is too simple to capture how your program actually works? Hosts Dr. Stacey Merola, and Bill Pate sit down with Dr. Bernadette Wright to explore knowledge mapping. A knowledge map is a visual approach that uses circles and arrows to show the interconnected web of causes and effects behind real-world outcomes, instead of forcing everything into a rigid input-output framework. Dr. Wright walks through how knowledge maps are built (often with 20-25+ interconnected concepts), why multiple reviewers matter, and how the process helps teams surface feedback loops, catch oversimplified solutions, and get aligned on what's actually driving results. The conversation also covers popular mapping tools, how the approach compares to traditional logic models, and where generative AI might fit into the future of concept mapping. A must-listen for evaluators, researchers, and program leaders who want a clearer picture of complexity. An example of a knowledge map can be found here. Source: Strategic Knowledge Mapping: The Co-Creation of Useful Knowledge A summary of the episode can be found here.  The podcast music was written and produced by Stacey Merola. The podcast artwork was created by Zoe Targino.