ABSTRACT
This chapter presents a framework for the integrated systems research and demonstrates its utility through case studies where the approach has been applied. It provides lessons for practitioners of research for development, in particular for those working in integrated systems research for agricultural transformation. The chapter argues that the 'agricultural research for development' paradigm, aiming at enhancing the livelihoods of smallholder farmers, must emphasize an increase in agro-ecological capacity to support resilient and productive smallholder systems through integrated systems approaches. Integrated systems research for development is expected to directly improve the effectiveness of development spending at local scales, at the same time as producing generalizable knowledge and forging new partnerships that will impact livelihoods. Gender plays a significant role in integrated systems research because gender norms and divisions of labour can be considered social institutions that pose both opportunities and constraints to addressing challenges in the agricultural transformation.
