The Power Cube

Introduction

Power mapping is a very useful way to help campaigners come up with the right tactics that will have the most effect on their targets. The Power Cube is a tool developed by researchers at the Institute of Development Studies, University of Sussex. Using this tool can help you analyse the power your targets hold so you can create a more effective campaign strategy and bring about change.

Spaces of power

• Closed- behind closed doors, private: meetings, private communications, events exclusive to a group of people
• Invited- open to the public but regulated: government consultations, recorded meetings, Q&A events
• Created- when ‘less powerful’ people create or claim a space: campaigns, occupations, grassroots movements

Faces of power

• Visible- ‘official’ faces: laws, politics, councils, elections
• Hidden- preventing others from accessing power: hidden agendas, limiting access
• Invisible- belief systems: cultural shifts, changing people’s minds, stereotyping, commonly held beliefs

Levels of power

• Local- town, city, region
• National- the whole country or nation
• Global- beyond the borders of your country

Using this tool can help you analyse the power your targets hold so you can create a more effective campaign strategy and bring about change.

Explore Further

• Power and Power Mapping: Start Here
• Campaign Bootcamp Collection
• It’s All About Power: A Guide to Thinking Differently about Power for Solidarity in Social Change
• All About Power: Understanding Social Power and Power Structures
• Power Mapping and Analysis by Anita Tang