Can we change the Inclusion Web to suit our own ideas?

Can we switch the outer and inner circles?

One project switched the outer and inner circles as they found that people needed the additional room available for use in the outer circle, and this was more helpful for the discussion about ‘people’ rather than ‘places’. If this change is made, care is needed in both interpreting individual Inclusion Webs and aggregating findings.

Can we change the number, size or position of the Life Domains?

In the Inclusion Web, the person decides on which people and places to include and where to place items that straddle two or more of the life domains, but s/he does not label the domains or set the size of each one. One project wanted people to invent their own domains (for example, one might wish to leave employment out altogether or separate shops and pubs into their own categories rather than leave them in the ‘family and neighbourhood’ domain) or set the angle for each domain (like in a pie chart where the area shows the importance of the theme).

These are interesting ideas that might be developed into a related but different measure where the collation of data and interpretation of the findings would be quite different from the process used for the Inclusion Web. Anyone who does this might like to acknowledge their thinking was influenced by seeing the Inclusion Web, but should give their instrument a different name.

Can we add details of time use?

It has been suggested that information about the amount of time people spend in each setting or with each person could be captured. The Inclusion Web asks people to include the people and places that are of current significance to them (significance is quite different from use of time), and so this would again change the instrument. Using the Inclusion Web can prompt a discussion about use of time, but the numerical data does not include a measure of the time spent in particular places or with particular people.

Can we use the chart to draw a community resource map?

It is possible to use the Inclusion Web chart to create a wall planner scale that shows the people, networks and places that can be found in the local community. By using the same chart for an individual and the community resource map, people can easily match their aspirations with what is available and have a good chance of moving forward. This map can then be highlighted to show where you have established connections, delivered training or supported individuals to participate. It may also reveal gaps in your knowledge.

Can we create a large version?

One project designed a version of the Inclusion Web that included a tear-away carbon copy for the file, so that they can leave the original with the person themselves. Another produced a floor mat ‘Twister’ version, so that people can place photographs or other symbols of their activities and relationships on the mat and it can be photographed as a permanent record.