Cognitive Mapping and Strategic Options Development and Analysis (SODA)

Strategic options development and analysis (SODA) is a problem structuring method that incorporates a particular approach to cognitive mapping that draws from the psychological theory of personal constructs. What differentiates it from all other cognitive mapping approaches is its use of bipolar constructs that enable the clarification of meaning. Besides their qualitative content, the structure of SODA maps allow for a range of quantitative analyses, especially through the use of graph theory. This article describes the contemporary context of cognitive mapping, introduces the design and analysis of SODA maps, and concludes with a critical appreciation that identifies three significant areas for further research.

Keywords: cognitive mapping; psychology of personal constructs; graph theory; decision making