Systems Thinking for Public Leaders Training Course

Introduction

In today's interconnected and complex world, public leaders face multifaceted challenges that often defy simple solutions. This intensive 5-day training course introduces public leaders to the powerful discipline of Systems Thinking, equipping them with the ability to understand the intricate relationships, feedback loops, and emergent behaviors within public systems. Learn to move beyond isolated problems to identify root causes and design more effective, sustainable interventions that address the whole picture.

This program will transform how you approach policy development, resource allocation, and organizational change by enabling you to see the "big picture" and anticipate unintended consequences. By applying systems thinking principles, you will enhance your decision-making, foster collaborative problem-solving across agencies, and ultimately lead to more resilient and impactful public services for the citizens you serve.

Duration

5 days

Target Audience

  • Senior Leaders and Managers in Government Ministries and Agencies
  • Public Policy Analysts and Developers
  • Program Managers and Evaluators in the Public Sector
  • Leaders involved in Cross-Agency Initiatives
  • Anyone responsible for designing or implementing public programs

Objectives

Upon completion of this course, participants will be able to:

  • Understand the core concepts and principles of Systems Thinking.
  • Identify interdependencies and feedback loops within complex public systems.
  • Apply systems thinking tools and methodologies to public sector challenges.
  • Design more effective and sustainable public policies and interventions.
  • Foster a systems-oriented approach to leadership and problem-solving within their organizations.

Course Modules

Module 1: Introduction to Systems Thinking for Public Leaders

  • What is Systems Thinking? A Shift in Perspective
  • Why Systems Thinking is Crucial for Public Service
  • Understanding Complex Adaptive Systems in Government
  • Moving Beyond Linear Cause-and-Effect
  • The Benefits of a Systems Approach to Public Challenges

Module 2: Core Concepts of Systems Thinking

  • Identifying System Boundaries and Components
  • Understanding Interconnections and Relationships
  • Exploring Feedback Loops: Reinforcing and Balancing
  • Delays, Levers, and Emergent Properties
  • Systems Archetypes in Public Sector Contexts

Module 3: Tools for Systems Analysis

  • Causal Loop Diagramming for Public Problems
  • Stock and Flow Diagrams for Resource Management
  • Systems Archetype Identification and Application
  • Iceberg Model: Uncovering Mental Models and Structures
  • Influence Diagrams for Policy Analysis

Module 4: Applying Systems Thinking to Public Policy Development

  • Mapping Policy Systems and Stakeholders
  • Identifying Unintended Consequences of Policies
  • Designing Policies for Resilience and Adaptability
  • Policy Interventions as System Leverage Points
  • Case Studies: Systems Thinking in Policy Successes and Failures

Module 5: Systems Thinking for Public Program Design and Implementation

  • Designing Programs that Address Root Causes
  • Anticipating Systemic Barriers to Implementation
  • Fostering Collaboration Across Silos
  • Adaptive Management and Continuous Learning
  • Measuring Systemic Impact vs. Isolated Outputs

Module 6: Leadership and Culture in a Systems Context

  • Cultivating a Systems Thinking Mindset in Public Organizations
  • Leading Complex Change Initiatives
  • Facilitating Collaborative Problem-Solving
  • Building Learning Organizations in Government
  • The Role of Mental Models in Shaping Public Systems

Module 7: Data, Metrics, and Evaluation from a Systems Perspective

  • Identifying System-Level Indicators and Metrics
  • Data Collection and Analysis for Systems Insights
  • Evaluating Program Effectiveness in a Complex System
  • Learning from Failure: A Systems Approach to Iteration
  • Communicating Systemic Insights to Stakeholders

Module 8: Advanced Applications and Future Trends

  • Systems Thinking for Wicked Problems (e.g., Climate Change, Poverty)
  • Integrating Systems Thinking with Design Thinking and Agile
  • Building Cross-Sector Partnerships for Systemic Change
  • Future Trends in Public Sector Systems Thinking
  • Developing a Personal Action Plan for Systems Leadership

CERTIFICATION

  • Upon successful completion of this training, participants will be issued with Macskills Training and Development Institute Certificate

TRAINING VENUE

  • Training will be held at Macskills Training Centre. We also tailor make the training upon request at different locations across the world.

AIRPORT PICK UP AND ACCOMMODATION

  • Airport pick up and accommodation is arranged upon request

TERMS OF PAYMENT

Payment should be made to Macskills Development Institute bank account before the start of the training and receipts sent to info@macskillsdevelopment.com

 

 systems Thinking For Public Leaders Training Course in C么te d'Ivoire
Dates Fees Location Action