Force Field Analysis

Force field analysis is a technique which can help you visually identify how different forces are helping or hindering the achievement of your work objectives. It shows both supporting and resisting forces, and works on the assumption that security problems might arise from resisting forces, and that you could take advantage of some of the supporting forces. This technique can be completed by just one person, but is most effective when used by a diverse group with a clearly defined work objective and a method for accomplishing it.

Begin by drawing a horizontal arrow pointing to a box. Write a short summary of your work objective in this box. This will provide a focus for identifying supporting and resisting forces. Draw another box above the central arrow. List all potential forces which could be preventing you from achieving your work objective here. Draw a similar box, containing all potential supportive forces, underneath the arrow. Draw a final box for forces whose direction is unknown or unsure.

After completing your chart it is time to evaluate the results. Force field analysis helps you to clearly visualise the forces you are dealing with. The goal is to find ways to reduce or eliminate risk generated by resisting forces, partly through potential help from supporting forces. In terms of the forces of unknown direction, you will need to decide whether to look at them as supporting, or to monitor them continuously in order to detect signs of them becoming either resisting or supporting.