Lorraine Steyn discusses systems thinking emphasizing understanding interconnectedness and whole picture. Topics include feedback loops, defining boundaries, stocks and flows in systems, conflicting objectives, sustainable change in systems, logical vs. systems thinking. Audience engages in Q&A post-presentation.
Systems thinking emphasizes interconnectedness and patterns for holistic understanding beyond details.
Feedback loops, both balancing and reinforcing, are essential concepts in systems thinking for stability and intensification over time.
Deep dives
Introduction to Systems Thinking
Systems thinking is about looking at patterns of change and interconnectedness to understand the bigger picture beyond details. It encourages thinking beyond decomposition and delves into elements, connectedness, and purpose as essential components of a system.
Feedback Loops in Systems Thinking
Feedback loops play a vital role in systems thinking, with reinforcing and balancing loops being key concepts. Balancing loops help maintain stability, like putting on a jacket when cold, while reinforcing loops intensify with time, similar to a stampede effect. Understanding causal loop diagrams aids in visualizing these concepts.
Boundaries in Systems Thinking
In systems thinking, defining boundaries is crucial to understand the scope of analysis. Complex systems require clear boundaries to focus on interconnected elements while considering external influences. Drawing boundaries, similar to a loose thread in a jersey, determines the depth and breadth of system analysis.
Models and Tools in Systems Thinking
Utilizing models like stock and flow diagrams helps in visualizing systems and understanding feedback mechanisms in practical contexts. These tools assist in predicting system behavior and exploring variables that influence flows. Incorporating such modeling techniques fosters resilience and enhances decision-making processes in diverse systems.
Systems thinking is the macro behaviour that we must understand in analyzing our world. A system always produces what it is designed to do, even if that isn't at all what we meant it to do!
Systems are self-maintaining, and contain balancing and/or reinforcing feedback loops.
We'll look at how these work, and what happens when they fail. You'll see how to apply systems thinking to the systems that are all around us.
This is an introductory talk to the world of Systems Thinking, condensed into 45 mins plus time for questions at the end.
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