MAPPING COMPLEX SITUATIONS IN AGRIBUSINESS COOPERATIVES USING SYSTEMS THINKING

Abstract

Relentless efforts to enhance the performance of the Cooperative have been made by multiple stakeholders in Indonesia. Recognizing the complexity of the problem
faced by the Cooperative, systems thinking could be applied to answer the challenges effectively. This paper implements Soft System Methodology combined with Critical
System Heuristics to reach out to multiple perspectives, which include the tea farmer and the tea picker's views on how the system should be improved. A set of qualitative
engagements—including interviews and participatory focus group discussions—has been conducted among Cooperative members and administrators of Paninggaran Berdikari Makmur Cooperative in Pekalongan, Central Java, Indonesia. These methods combine successfully in structuring the problem that is produced by embracing the less powerful stakeholders' opinions, the tea farmers and the tea pickers. Therefore, the result could have been used by stakeholders to create more effective and efficient interventions.