Graphic tools for data representation in integrated analysis of farming systems

This paper provides an overview of graphic tools that are currently used for representing integrated analysis of farming systems and environmental systems. The overview includes also an appraisal of the various methods in terms of pros and cons. Some key issues concerning how to implement a sound integrated graphical representation are also discussed. We believe that the usefulness of sound graphical representations lies in helping social debate and rising awareness among stakeholders about critical trade-offs and the complex nature of living systems, as well as in forcing both researchers and stakeholders to make clear to themselves and to the others the process by which they represent their own reality.