Definition from Change Designs
βA measure taken to affect an outcome or person. Influences attempt to guide, shape or modify. Often unpredictable and subjective in nature, influences differ from controls, which are more determinate and predictable.β
Going further
I've curated 400+ definitions just like this one in a tiny dictionary. In this glossary you can easily access, search and understand 400+ terms that service designers and other innovators use.