Integrating problem structuring methods with formal design theory: collective water management policy design in Tunisia

Groundwater management, especially in Mediterranean regions such as Tunisia, is challenging due to diverse stakeholder interests and the arid climate, which makes the sustainability of water resources extremely difficult. This paper proposes an innovative approach to the design of decision and policy alternatives by combining Problem Structuring Methods (PSMs) and the participatory tool based on the Concept-Knowledge (C-K) theory, named Policy-Knowledge, Concepts, Proposals (P-KCP). In a multi-methodological perspective, using Cognitive Maps and Value Trees in combination with P-KCP, the study aims to innovatively generate alternatives to address the sustainability issue of the case study, namely collective groundwater management. The paper provides a practical and adaptable guide to fostering innovation for policy design and generation of alternatives. By bridging decision theory and design theory, the study addresses the methodological gap in alternatives generation and highlights the role of C-K theory for supporting innovative design processes. Integrating PSMs and C-K theory, the multi-methodology advocates participatory approaches to address complex sustainability challenges, provides an adaptable, replicable tool, and encourages the creation of unconventional solutions. Ultimately, this paper offers new collective practices for groundwater management, expanding the set of alternatives through the integration of PSMs and C-K theory and reflecting on the applied multi-methodology.