Systems thinking workshop

The Systems Thinking Basics Workshop is designed to help participants shift their focus from isolated events to understanding the underlying systems that drive these events. By exploring foundational concepts of Systems Thinking, participants will learn to identify patterns, understand causal loops, and apply models that enhance organizational learning and effectiveness.

Workshop objectives

By participating in this workshop, participants will achieve the following objectives:

Understand its power to see the bigger picture and drive real change
Explore the fundamental building blocks of complex systems: feedback, interconnectedness, and emergence
Recognize recurring patterns in complex systems – learn to identify and address common challenges effectively
Gain hands-on experience using tools like iceberg model and causal loop diagrams to solve real-world problems

Modules

Module 1

Foundations – Seeing the whole picture

What is systems thinking? We’ll define systems thinking, contrasting it with traditional linear approaches
Linear vs. systems thinking: Understand how both approaches frame problems and when each is most appropriate
Different thinking models: Understand the different thinking models
Applying systems thinking to your domain: Discover how the concepts resonate within your industry or field of work – making them immediately relevant

Module 2

Core Components – The building blocks of complexity

Principles of system thinking: Holistic perspective, interconnectedness, non-linearity, emergence,
Iceberg model: A powerful tool to identify the underlying root causes of problems—going beyond surface symptoms
Systems mapping (Causal loop diagrams (CLDs)): Develop practical skills in visually representing system dynamics using causal loop diagrams – a key tool for understanding complex relationships

Module 3

Systems archetypes – Recognizing recurring patterns

Common system challenges: Discover recurring patterns of behavior that lead to organizational challenges (e.g., the Fixes that fail, Shifting the burden, Success to the successful, Limits to growth)
Identifying and addressing problems effectively: Learn how to recognize these archetypes in real-world scenarios and develop strategies for addressing them
Practical exercises: Apply systems archetypes to case studies relevant to your work

Module 4

Mental Models – The hidden influences

What are mental models? Understand how our deeply held beliefs shape our perceptions and decisions
Influence on decision-making: Explore how mental models can lead to biases and flawed solutions
Challenging existing assumptions: Learn techniques for identifying and questioning your own (and others’) assumptions – fostering more open and innovative thinking

Module 5

Putting it all together – Applying systems thinking to your work

Applying systems thinking to your own change project: Use the concepts learned throughout the workshop
Places to intervene in a system: Identifying leverage points in CLDs to design interventions
Designing interventions: Develop practical strategies for designing interventions that address root causes rather than just symptoms