Hi all, When leading a behaviour change program that includes multiple non-divisible behaviours, memory shortcuts can be helpful. Take, for example, the EPA’s Sprinkler Spruce-Up campaign. The campaign focuses on influencing residential homeowners to irrigate their lawns without overwatering. They use a simple memory shortcut, or heuristic, to help people remember what to do: 1. Inspect for clogged, broken, or missing sprinkler heads2. Connect pipe joints tightly to prevent leaks3. Direct the sprinkler away from hardscapes such as driveways & sidewalks4. Select a WaterSense irrigation controller to monitor soil moisture There is a short video that explains how easy this is to do, as well as an infographic with the four steps.
Memory plays an important role in the success of behaviour change campaigns, so it may be helpful to keep the concept of bounded rationality in mind. This includes the idea that during the decision-making process, there are limits on people's time, resources, and information. Making it simpler for your priority group to process information by providing clear, easy-to-remember steps will enhance the feeling of self-efficacy (yes, I can do this!) and lead to better program outcomes. To learn more about the EPA’s Sprinkler Spruce-Up campaign, click here. To learn more about heuristics (memory shortcuts), consider reading this Psychology Today article.
Memory plays an important role in the success of behaviour change campaigns, so it may be helpful to keep the concept of bounded rationality in mind. This includes the idea that during the decision-making process, there are limits on people's time, resources, and information. Making it simpler for your priority group to process information by providing clear, easy-to-remember steps will enhance the feeling of self-efficacy (yes, I can do this!) and lead to better program outcomes. To learn more about the EPA’s Sprinkler Spruce-Up campaign, click here. To learn more about heuristics (memory shortcuts), consider reading this Psychology Today article.
