Methodology

While Integrated Assessment can take many forms and include a range of processes and approaches, the fundamental outcome is an analysis of the likely environmental, social, and economic futures under a range of policy options. There are many ways to get there, but here are eight useful steps:

1. Define the policy-relevant question
2. Document the status and trends
3. Describe the causes and consequences
4. Identify desired outcomes and policy options
5. Evaluate various policy options
6. Provide technical guidance for implementation
7. Assess uncertainty
8. Submit findings for peer review and public comment.

The schematic below illustrates possible components of our collaborative Integrated Assessment approach, which involves key participants and stakeholders throughout all stages of the process. To learn more about this methodology and how it works, please click here for an Integrated Assessment Fact Sheet (two pages) or here for a detailed Integrated Assessment Guide (23 pages).