The purpose of the matrix model

In describing the matrix model in this book we have four aims: (i) to provide a framework which simplifies the description of mental health services, (ii) to offer a way to order complex events, which can happen at different times, as well as concurrently, (iii) to assist understanding of these events, and (iv) to help to identify service deficits and to prioritise actions for service improvement.

First, we have attempted to simplify a description of the structure and functions of mental health services, because their complexity often prevents comparative assessments, and may mean that those involved in providing or receiving services do not have a shared terminology with which to communicate.We are aware that simplicity, while it encourages the initial appeal of the model, is bought at the expense of specificity. On the other hand, this question of balance is one that needs to be answered in any theoretical model that seeks to represent complex reality.

Second, with the matrix model we have sought to bring order by choosing time and space as the classical Cartesian axes for our two-dimensional model. We have selected these dimensions because, in our view, they are largely independent and because their interactions offer the richest array of domains useful to reflect the astonishing degree of variability in actual mental health services.

This model is therefore intended as an integrative tool. This is especially fit for its purpose within mental health services as they are characterised by several processes that tend to produce disintegration. The variety of agencies and organisations involved will often produce fission not fusion.