Systems thinking: strategic expertise in dynamic times

Module 1: Systems Thinking: Recognizing, visualizing and understanding systems

What is a system?

• Unraveling structures, reading relationships, understanding dynamics - for a sound understanding of the invisible framework in which organizations operate.

Mental models & iceberg structure

• Uncovering invisible patterns of thought and behavior that control our actions deep below the surface.

Patterns, feedback and assumptions

• Deciphering systemic patterns that shape our actions - and learning to confront them with clarity and conscious control.

Recognize system behavior and correlations

• Using causal diagrams and feedback loops to shed light on complex cause-and-effect relationships.

System archetypes in business

• See through recurring patterns, recognize bottlenecks and transform them in a targeted manner - from the "fix that fails" to the "success that is not scalable".

Identify levers for change

• Discover strategically effective leverage points (according to Donella Meadows) - and start where small changes make a big difference.

Delays, rivers, stocks

• Make dynamics visible with Stocks & Flows - and manage change processes intelligently.

Module 2: Acting systemically - applying systemic thinking to key areas of action in organizations

Guidance

• Systemically develop an inspiring team narrative and a powerful purpose.

Strategy

• Define and align goals holistically and dynamically.

structure

• Clarify roles in a clear, meaningful and context-conscious way.

Processes & decisions

• Reflect on decisions in a forward-looking and impact-oriented manner.

Culture

• Creating an open, adaptive and resilient feedback and learning culture.