Systems Thinking: Tools, Methods, and Skills for Organizational Effectiveness in a Complex World |
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A two-day introductory course in Systems
Thinking for organizational leaders,
consultants, and facilitators. What is Systems Thinking? Systems thinking is a practical approach for
dealing with the
“big picture.” In systems thinking, we focus on understanding the whole
by
examining the cause-and-effect relationships among its components. We practice systems thinking in order to find
high leverage
actions, changes and interventions. The purpose is a smoother
functioning world
in which our systems serve our purposes smoothly and naturally. Systems Thinking includes both Forrester’s
attention to stocks
and flows and Senge’s system archetypes. Systems
Thinking can be helpful in virtually all aspects
of life, on the
job and off.
As a Participant, You Will: 1.
Increase your skills for understanding the
causes and dynamics of performance (both good and bad). 2.
Learn the vocabulary and diagramming tools
for communicating about systems. 3.
Make progress on current work issues through
class exercises and group projects. 4.
Increase your ability to help a team
understand complex problems. Content and Approach of This Program • Systems Thinking as a point of view, practical questions to bring out this point of view; Why Systems Thinking is Senge’s “Fifth Discipline” and its relationship to the other four disciplines. • Causal mapping and diagramming the
system;
Tools for understanding and for communication. • A Systems Thinking process for dealing
with any situation... and learning in the
process. • Using systems thinking in work groups;
basics
of systems thinking facilitation; communicating with others about the
complexities of systems. • Rigorous, but not mathematical, not
technical, and not focused on computer tools. Instead,
we emphasize the key concepts and tools for use
personally and
in small groups. Systems Thinking in this style is being taught in
Middle
Schools in several locations around the world. • The counter-intuitive dynamics of stocks
and
flows; a reliable approach to avoid confusion. • The classic models of the field (Senge
calls
these the “System Archetypes”) and how to use them to find leverage in
your
system. • Systems thinking capability requires
practice. We will use the systems thinking elements in individual and
small
group exercises with feedback. The course style is highly interactive,
and case
examples are used throughout. • Please bring current work issues for
exploration in the small group exercises.
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