This study intoduces a strategy for analysing different kinds of phenomena by building "information structures" for analysing how parts make a whole in complex systems. The strategy introduced may be of use when there is a need to understand complex systems or situations; e.g., in various studies of adult education when education is seen as closely related to individual and environmental issues. The paper introduces some areas of research where this approach could be applied; in conceptual analysis, theory building and research design, analyses of change, historical studies, decision making, innovative studies, and in educational planning and assessment. Data from an earlier study on supervisory behavior in teacher training as assessed by student teachers is used to give an example of how to build an information structure and how to use this information in building conceptual models for general and individual descriptions of a behavior. An example is also given of how to apply an information structure called Dynamic Concept Analysis in studies of change. (JD)