2026 Conference: Systems Thinking and Systems Practice

Hosted by the University of Hull Centre for Systems Studies (CSS), Systems and Complexity in Organisation (SCiO), The OR Society and IFSR.

For the first time ever, leading institutions representing a broad range of systems thinking methods and approaches are coming together for a landmark conference on Systems Thinking and Systems Practice.

This conference has been shaped with input from a wide-ranging committee, including members of the UK government’s Systems Thinking Interest Group (STIG) and the International Federation for Systems Research (IFSR). It's a unique chance to connect with others across the field, share different perspectives, and explore the future of systems practice.

About the Conference

The conference is an opportunity to explore the core principles of systems thinking, from its foundations to the latest emerging topics. A key focus is on bridging the gap between theory and practice, though showcasing how systems thinking is being used to tackle complex, real-world challenges in areas such as government, health, education, and business. Practical case studies, interactive workshops, and insightful presentations, will explore tools and techniques to inform decision-making, drive effective change, and engage stakeholders meaningfully.

We are bringing together a diverse group of people, including researchers, practitioners, consultants, and students. This event is a dynamic forum for sharing knowledge, collaborating on new ideas, and moving the field forward together. You can expect engaging conversations, fresh perspectives on current challenges, and plenty of opportunities for networking with a vibrant mix of academics and systems leaders.

Whether you are systems curious, deeply embedded in systems practice or just beginning your journey, this is a moment to come together, learn from each other, and help shape the future of the field.

Abstracts

This conference aims to do things differently, bringing together in lively debate systems academics and public and private sector systems practitioners. We've received numerous proposals for:

• Introductory training sessions for the systems curious
• Interactive workshops using systems thinking to address real-life predicaments
• Case studies showing systems thinking in practice
• Papers advancing systems theory and systems methodologies
• Poster presentations demonstrating systems thinking in practice

No matter your level of experience, you’ll find sessions that challenge, inspire, and connect you to a vibrant systems community.

Preference has been given to proposals that bring together theory and practice in innovative and engaging ways suitable for a conference that combines researchers and practitioners of varying levels of experience. Enquiries about abstracts should be made to: @email:

Registration open

We invite you to join us for an engaging and insightful gathering dedicated to advancing the theory and practice of Systems Thinking.

This year's conference will feature a diverse and interactive programme designed to foster collaboration, capacity building, and knowledge exchange. Attendees can look forward to a rich agenda with a variety of session formats, such as keynote speakers, presentations, practical workshops, fireside chats, and networking opportunities. The event is curated to bring together the vibrant community of academics, practitioners, and apprentices and all in between in Systems Thinking to find out what emerges!

We encourage you to secure your place early to take advantage of our discounted early-bird registration rate - early-bird registrations close on Fri 23rd January 2026.

The conference begins at 12 noon on Monday 24 March and closes at 2.30pm on Wednesday 26 March 2026 with the opportunity to join the Mike Jackson Lecture and Dinner on the evening of 25th. 

A detailed programme is accessible at the conference web site: https://events.blackthorn.io/en/8eNd4w6/2026-conference-systems-thinking-and-systems-practice-5a1oWS7bIzd/sessions?t=202603241830