Global connections
State 4C
Purpose, coherence, capacity and fairness: four ways to discuss how institutions respond to public needs.
Four foundations for discussion
A conceptual framework for asking questions about institutions and comparing situations.
Purpose
Why does the institution exist? How clear is its purpose to the people it serves?
Coherence
How well do actions, rules and communication align? Is there room for feedback?
Capacity
Which knowledge, resources and procedures enable a move from intentions to action?
Fairness
How are different interests considered? Who can access opportunities and take part in discussing decisions?
Applying the framework
Describe a specific institution, decision or public need.
Consider the situation through each of the four dimensions.
Compare documents, observations and participants' perspectives.
Formulate possible actions and questions that remain open.
Institutions exist
through relationships
The four dimensions can be considered alongside the sovereignty triad, through people's experience and connections with the wider world.
The framework does not replace research or prove causation. It clarifies the subject of discussion and helps compare arguments.
Sovereignty triadFrom a shared question to a specific situation
We will prepare a foundation for research, discussion or a learning session.