Systems thinking involves treating, understanding and acting on complex and uncertain situations – which are only apparent when considered in entirety – as a system, i.e.: a collection of entities seen by someone as interacting together to do something.
Over the years, various approaches have been developed to enhance our understanding of situations when treated as systems. These approaches include:
The System Dynamics approach visually models and simulates interactions between entities, allowing us to understand and predict the evolving behaviour of complex systems (note that SD includes Causal Loop mapping). The Viable System Model rigorously assesses and designs the structures of entities and their interactions, ensuring that systems can resolve situations effectively. Critical Systems Heuristics is a textual framework that helps determine which elements are and should factor in our analysis and resolution of situations, particularly in contexts affected by power imbalances. Soft Systems Methodology is an organised approach to addressing 'messy', multi-organisational situations where stakeholders have differing views on the entities, their interactions, and their purposes. Patterns of Strategy is a method that enables dynamic planning and execution of strategies as interactions with other players develop.
These approaches collectively provide comprehensive tools for analysing and managing complex systems and situations.
