Translations for Transitions
The Translations for Transitions Lab connects complexity science to real-world decision-making in major societal transitions. We translate insights from modelling, behavioural research and marketing science into clear, usable guidance for policymakers, businesses and civil society, so that evidence can drive actual impact.
Objective
Act as a translation hub between complexity research and practice by co-developing decision-ready narratives, tools and policy options that make sustainable transitions effective, socially just and politically feasible.
Complexity Science
Use system mapping, behavioural data and computational models to uncover key feedback loops, leverage points and unintended effects in societal transitions.
Translation
Distil complex scientific insights into accessible stories, visuals and scenarios tailored to policymakers and other stakeholders, enabling informed, timely decisions.
Intervention
Work with ministries, cities, businesses and NGOs to co-design and test policy mixes and communication strategies, towards impactful interventions.
DPC+++ Impact
In this project, powered by POLDER and DPC (Dienst Publiek en Communicatie), we develop and apply complexity-science and systems-thinking methods to support Dutch ministries in designing and evaluating behavioural policy interventions. The project combines participatory system mapping (e.g., causal loop diagrams and group model building) with computational modelling and simulation to identify leverage points, anticipate unintended effects, and translate evidence into actionable policy options. The goal is robust, transparent decision support that links scientific insight to real-world policy design.
MIST: Marketing Insights for Societal Transitions
MIST is an initiative of the Amsterdam Business School Impact Centre, methodologically supported by POLDER. With MIST we demystify how actors’ decisions influence transitions and contribute to large-scale system change. By developing and sharing rigorous marketing research, we ensure that scientific insights, rather than unfounded claims inform the societal debate. We are knowledge brokers that make impact by enabling evidence-based decision making.
Jan Willem Bolderdijk and Zan Mlakar explore this from a social tipping points perspective: how can these complexity science findings be translated to marketers, consumers and businesses to let them help make green behaviors more mainstream?
Partners & Funders
