The impact of the social fabric matrix in analysis and policy advice

Abstract

The social fabric matrix (SFM) has been used in policy analysis for some 25 years. Several examples of SFM analysis are included within this volume. This chapter looks at these and other works and asks two simple questions. First, has the SFM shown itself to be a useful tool for policy analysis? Second, has SFM-based research and policy advice exercised real-world policy influence? Several examples are used to demonstrate that the answer to both of these questions is a qualified yes. The SFM fills an important role in the policy analysis toolbox and has in some cases had significant but hard won influence on actual policy. © 2009 Springer-Verlag New York.