Spectrum Check & Sweep

Ensuring Full Coverage

The Spectrum Check is a quick diagnostic tool to verify that a project or analysis has considered all relevant dimensions of sustainability. It uses the ELSI framework to systematically scan for blind spots.

How It Works

Walk through each ELSI8 category (Energy, Materials, Ecosystems, Species, Culture, Economy, Health, Happiness) and for each, ask:

What is the current state in this category?

What are the main areas of concern?

What opportunities exist?

What data or knowledge do we have? What is missing?

The Spectrum Sweep

A Spectrum Sweep is a more thorough version of the check, used as a formal analysis tool. It produces a structured overview of all ELSI categories with qualitative or quantitative scores, supporting goal setting, indicator development, and solution brainstorming.

The sweep can be done individually or as a group exercise. When done with a diverse team, it quickly reveals which areas receive the most attention and which are overlooked -- often a revealing insight in itself.

When to Use

Use a Spectrum Check at the start of every project to establish baseline awareness. Use a Spectrum Sweep during deeper analytical phases to ensure comprehensive coverage. Return to both tools during evaluation to verify that proposed solutions do not create new externalizations.