Tools for Global Problem Solving

Tools for global problem-solving include research and analysis methods; information and networking strategies to create and disseminate common knowledge; and ways of discovering and embracing uncertainty while implementing solutions to global problems in a rapidly changing world.

To be effective, such tools must be refined so that they can be shared and applied across borders and cultures. To be strategic, they should be versatile, that is, offer solutions to more than just one global problem. They should also be affordable, simple, and easy to use in many contexts.

Nautilus' strategic objective is to use the tools of cooperative engagement on high impact symbolic projects that demonstrate the possibility of alternative futures. As we improve and share these tools, we refer to them as the tools for global problem solving.

Research & Analysis

• Global Disclosure
  The Global Disclosure Project is a approach to policy analysis and freedom of information use that relies upon the creation of public information from coordinated and synchronized multi-national filings of freedom of information requests on governments for release of specific information.
  
  
• Energy/Leap
  Long-range Energy Alternatives Planning system (LEAP) software is used as the primary tool for modeling base year and alternative energy pathways both on the national and regional level in North East Asia by Nautilus Institute and Nautilus' Asian Energy Security (AES) working groups in an effort to understand and influence policy towards energy cooperation and energy security in the region. LEAP is an advanced Windows-based software tool for integrated energy-environment and greenhouse gas mitigation analysis. LEAP has been developed by the Stockholm Environment Institute-Boston with support from international organizations to meet the needs of researchers, NGOs and government agencies worldwide.

• Virtual Diasporas and Global Problem Solving
  The Virtual Diasporas project, as part of the Global Inclusion Program of Rockefeller Foundation, examined the growing impact of global diasporas, and their use of information technologies, on international conflict and cooperation. Specifically, this effort explored a number of issues ranging from global diaspora communities as an increasing source of conflict to the positive contributions that emerging cosmopolitan diaspora organizations are making to global problem-solving.
  Workshop report
  
  
• Information Axioms
  The Information Axioms project, also funded by the Rockefeller Foundation, examined the changing relationship between advancing information technologies and political discourse in the foreign policymaking arena. The principal goal of the project was to develop a set of realistic long-term proposals for enhancing the effectiveness of governmental and non-governmental organizations in the "information age."