Net Mapping to analyse the System-Policy-Society collaboration system in risk analysis: Guideline to conduct an on-line Net-Map Analysis workshop

Net Map is an interview-based mapping tool that can be used by researchers, facilitators, andimplementers to (1) visualize implicit knowledge and understand the interplay of complexformal and informal networks, power relations, and actors’ goals; (2) uncover sources ofconflicts as well as potentials for cooperation; (3) facilitate knowledge exchange and learningprocesses; and (4) develop visions and strategies to achieve common goals. In the FoodSafety4EU project, the Net Map methodology has been adjusted to make it suitable for conducting an online participatory workshop. The overal goal of the collaborative exercise is to identify who are the stakeholders in the society-policy-science (SPS) collaboration system, and what are their needs for improvement in their relations, resources and capabilities in conducting risk analysis (i.e. risk assessment, risk communication, risk management) of a specific (emerging) food safety issue.