Systems Thinking Essentials

Systems Thinking Essentials - Understanding Complexity

Details

Systems thinking is an approach to understanding complex systems by looking at how individual parts interact and influence one another within the whole. Instead of focusing on isolated components, systems thinking emphasizes the interrelationships, patterns, and feedback loops that shape the behaviour of the entire system.

It encourages a holistic perspective, where changes in one part of the system can have ripple effects throughout. This method is particularly useful in analysing complex problems, predicting unintended consequences, and finding leverage points where small actions can lead to significant, lasting improvements.

This systems thinking course provides participants with a comprehensive introduction to the essential concepts and practical applications of systems thinking. Over two days, attendees will learn how to view problems holistically, understand the dynamics of complex systems, and recognize common patterns like feedback loops and systems archetypes.

The course emphasizes practical tools, such as causal loops and stock and flow diagrams, helping participants apply systems thinking to real-world scenarios. Through case studies, hands-on exercises, and group projects, participants will develop the skills to identify leverage points, solve complex problems, and integrate systems thinking into their daily work.

Delivery Methods

Delivery Method	Duration
Classroom	2 days	Get a Quote
Live Virtual Training	2 days	Get a Quote

Discounts Available

Save up to 10% by booking and paying 10 business days before the course.

Brochure:

Information may change without notice.

Audience

The course is designed for anyone seeking to improve their ability to understand and solve multifaceted problems, making it valuable across various industries and sectors.

This includes managers, leaders, and project managers responsible for strategic planning and decision-making, as well as business analysts, consultants, and policymakers who deal with complex, dynamic environments. Educators, researchers, and professionals in non-profits, engineering, and technology would also benefit, as they often face interconnected challenges.

Managers
Leaders
Engineers
System Architects
Business Analysts

Pre-Requisites

Basic Understanding of Problem-Solving: Participants should have experience in basic problem-solving, critical thinking, or decision-making processes in their field. If that basis is not in place, we would recommend attending our Critical Thinking and Problem-solving and Decision Making courses

Interest in Complex Systems

Familiarity with General Business, Social, or Organizational Systems

Openness to New Thinking Approaches

Course Outline / Curriculum

Day 1: Foundations of Systems Thinking

Definition of Systems Thinking: Understanding the importance of seeing systems as interconnected wholes.
Historical Context: Overview of the development and evolution of systems thinking.
Systems vs. Components: Differentiating systems from their individual parts.
Holistic Thinking: Recognizing interrelationships and seeing the bigger picture.
Types of Systems:
- Closed vs. Open systems.
- Simple vs. Complex systems.
Systems Archetypes:
- Common patterns like "Limits to Growth," "Tragedy of the Commons," and "Fixes that Fail."
- Identifying and applying archetypes in real-world situations.
Feedback Loops:
- Reinforcing (positive) and balancing (negative) loops.
- Real-world examples and implications.

Day 2: Applying Systems Thinking

Causal Loop Diagrams: Creating and interpreting diagrams to visualize system interactions.
Stock and Flow Diagrams: Modeling stocks, flows, and their dynamic behaviour within systems.
Leverage Points: Identifying areas in systems where small changes can create significant impacts.
Systems Thinking Tools:
- Iceberg Model, Behavior Over Time Graphs, and Systems Mapping.
Real-World Applications:
- Case studies showing successful use of systems thinking in different fields.
- Group projects for practical application.
Integrating Systems Thinking: Strategies for applying systems thinking in daily work and decision-making.
Challenges and Solutions: Addressing obstacles in systems thinking and overcoming them.

Schedule Dates and Booking

There are currently no scheduled dates.

Please note that this course needs a minimum of 6 delegates to schedule a course. You can choose to be added to the waiting list by clicking the button below, and we will contact you when we have enough delegates interested. Should we not get enough delegates, we will refund or credit your paid booking.

Add me to the waiting list

Should you need this course urgently, the following options are available:

Pay for 6 delegates (whether you have them or not) and we will schedule the course as soon as possible.
If you have fewer delegates and cannot pay for 6, we can negotiate a shortened course where some of the time will be spent in blended learning - watching videos and doing tutorials and exercises with some contact time with the trainer. We would want to discuss what your core needs are so that we cover those aspects. You need to have paid for 3 delegates at least.

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