Course Details

Solve Complex Challenges: Essential Systems Thinking Training Course

INTRODUCTION

In today's interconnected and multifaceted world, understanding the underlying structures and interdependencies within complex situations is paramount for effective problem-solving and strategic decision-making. Our comprehensive Systems Thinking Training Course is meticulously designed to equip individuals with the essential frameworks, analytical tools, and holistic perspectives to analyze intricate systems, identify root causes, and develop sustainable solutions. Mastering key systems thinking principles, understanding system dynamics, and developing strong analytical and conceptual skills are crucial for navigating complexity and driving impactful change. This intensive thinking training will empower you to cultivate your systems thinking effectiveness and become a more insightful and strategic problem-solver.

This transformative systems thinking development program delves into the core competencies of understanding interconnectedness, providing actionable frameworks for mapping system behavior, identifying feedback loops, and anticipating unintended consequences. From understanding the principles of causal loop diagrams to mastering the art of stock and flow analysis and developing crucial holistic thinking skills, this course offers a comprehensive approach to honing your ability to see the bigger picture and understand how different parts of a system interact. Learn to analyze complex challenges, develop more effective interventions, and foster long-term, sustainable solutions through proven systems thinking methodologies.

DURATION

5 days

TARGET AUDIENCE

• Leaders and Managers Facing Complex Challenges
• Project Managers Navigating Interdependent Projects
• Business Analysts and Strategy Professionals
• Engineers and Technical Specialists
• Policy Makers and Public Sector Professionals
• Anyone Seeking a Deeper Understanding of Complex Systems
• Individuals Interested in Improving Their Problem-Solving Skills

COURSE OBJECTIVES

1. Understand the fundamental principles and concepts of systems thinking.
2. Learn to identify and map the components and relationships within a system.
3. Master the use of causal loop diagrams to visualize system behavior.
4. Develop skills in identifying feedback loops and their impact on system dynamics.
5. Understand the concepts of stocks, flows, and accumulation in systems.
6. Learn to analyze system behavior over time and identify patterns.
7. Develop strategies for intervening in systems to achieve desired outcomes.
8. Foster a holistic and interconnected perspective on problem-solving.

COURSE CONTENT

Module 1: Foundations of Systems Thinking

• Defining systems thinking and its importance in a complex world.
• Exploring the core principles of systems: interconnectedness, feedback, and emergence.
• Understanding the limitations of linear thinking in complex situations.
• Identifying different types of systems and their characteristics.
• Assessing your current approach to understanding complexity.

Module 2: Mapping System Components and Relationships

• Learning techniques for identifying the key elements within a system.
• Developing skills in mapping the relationships and interactions between components.
• Utilizing visual tools to represent system structures.
• Understanding the concept of boundaries and their influence on system analysis.
• Identifying key stakeholders and their roles within the system.

Module 3: Understanding Causal Loop Diagrams

• Introducing the concept of causal loop diagrams (CLDs) as a systems thinking tool.
• Learning to identify and map reinforcing and balancing feedback loops.
• Understanding how feedback loops drive system behavior over time.
• Using CLDs to visualize the interconnectedness of variables.
• Practicing the creation and interpretation of causal loop diagrams.

Module 4: Analyzing Feedback Loops and System Dynamics

• Deepening your understanding of reinforcing (positive) and balancing (negative) feedback.
• Analyzing how feedback loops contribute to system growth, stability, or decline.
• Identifying delays within feedback loops and their impact on system behavior.
• Understanding the concept of unintended consequences arising from feedback.
• Applying feedback loop analysis to real-world scenarios.

Module 5: Stocks, Flows, and Accumulation in Systems

• Introducing the fundamental concepts of stocks (accumulations) and flows (rates of change).
• Understanding how flows affect the levels of stocks over time.
• Analyzing the behavior of systems based on stock and flow relationships.
• Identifying key leverage points for influencing system behavior through flows.
• Applying stock and flow thinking to resource management and other dynamic systems.

Module 6: Analyzing System Behavior Over Time

• Learning to identify patterns of behavior over time (BOT) in systems.
• Understanding common BOT archetypes (e.g., exponential growth, oscillation, S-shaped growth).
• Using BOT graphs to visualize system trends and anticipate future behavior.
• Connecting BOT patterns to underlying system structures and feedback loops.
• Applying BOT analysis to forecasting and strategic planning.

Module 7: Intervening in Systems for Desired Outcomes

• Identifying leverage points within a system for effective intervention.
• Understanding the potential for both high-leverage and low-leverage interventions.
• Developing strategies for designing interventions that address root causes.
• Anticipating potential resistance and unintended consequences of interventions.
• Implementing and evaluating the impact of system interventions.

Module 8: Fostering a Holistic and Interconnected Perspective

• Encouraging a shift from linear to systemic thinking.
• Promoting cross-functional collaboration and understanding of interdependencies.
• Developing the ability to see the "forest for the trees."
• Applying systems thinking principles to personal and organizational challenges.
• Cultivating a mindset of continuous learning and adaptation within complex systems.

•  CERTIFICATION
• Upon successful completion of this training, participants will be issued with a 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