Principles  |   Step 1-4  |   Step 5-6  |   Step 7-8  |   Step 9-10  | 

The 10 steps

SEAN is a method with practical tools and guidelines for a systematic analysis of the environmental potentials for and constraints on human development. The analysis itself, including priority setting and making strategic choices, is steered by social and economic development criteria mainly. SEAN consists of ten analytical steps, grouped into four clusters, which create a logical structure and provide guidance. There are a number of principles guiding the use of these steps [see principles] The following figure gives an overview of steps.

Cluster I Analysis of ecological system-human society context		Step 1 Identifacation of stakeholders and main environmental functions
		Step 2 Analysis of trends of environmental functions and cause-effect chains
		Step 3 Assessment of impacts of current environmental trends on human society
		Step 4 Definition of norms, standards and tresholds involved
Cluster II Problem analysis	Step 5 Problem definition, based on insight from steps 1-4		Step 7 Inventory of opportunities, long list and short list		Cluster III Opportunity analysis
	Step 6 Problem analysis, finding root causes and actors		Step 8 Opportunity analysis, defining potentials for realisation
Cluster IV Strategic planning and follow-up activities		Step 9 Synthesis, definiting inputs for a policy and a strategic plan for sustainable development
		Step 10 Set-up of (environmental) monitoring system and other follow-up activities

These steps are implemented as part of the SEAN process starting at phase 2 (scoping), after phase 1 (initiation) should have been completed (see the overview of the five process phases). For application purposes, details on the analytical steps include guidelines, tips, practical tools and references to checklists.

Various adapted versions have been made based upon local conditions. The attention given to each step and the degree of detail required varies according to the type of SEAN application, external conditions and working modalities. Some steps may require much attention, but others can be worked out rapidly using existing studies and knowledge. As SEAN is a cyclical and iterative process, steps can be combined or repeated at different stages and at different levels of detail.