Displaying 49 - 96 of 556
English
0:52
2025 SCiO Annual General Meeting - members only
Recording of the SCiO 2025 Annual General Meeting - for members. Note that the microphone was not working properly for the first half of the meeting and so this part is subtitled. A 'theoretical' slide set is attached as well as the minutes.
Read more
Confidential – Members Only
English
0:52
2025 SCiO Annual General Meeting - members only
Recording of the SCiO 2025 Annual General Meeting - for members. Note that the microphone was not working properly for the first half of the meeting and so this part is subtitled. A 'theoretical' slide set is attached as well as the minutes.
Confidential – Members Only
English
0:25
How can we strengthen the connection between relational leadership and practice with systems thinking
My presentation explores how we can better connect systems thinking with relational practice to create more human, adaptive, and learning organisations. It draws on a case study showing Somerset’s journey which describes the 'magic' when we align system understanding (using systems thinking methods, tools and methodologies in particular) with how we actually work within it especially through high...
Read more
Use with Accreditation
English
0:25
How can we strengthen the connection between relational leadership and practice with systems thinking
My presentation explores how we can better connect systems thinking with relational practice to create more human, adaptive, and learning organisations. It draws on a case study showing Somerset’s journey which describes the 'magic' when we align system understanding (using systems thinking methods, tools and methodologies in particular) with how we actually work within it especially through high...
Use with Accreditation
English
0:19
Pacing Changes with Living Systems: Rhythmic threads in textures, rhythmic textures of threads
This talk outlines the core concepts of Pacing Changes which sees systems as lines (or threads) weaving through time rhythmically, as opposed to a spatial layout. This reframe moves "systems change" away from a dominant "freeze-change-unfreeze" approach and instead focuses on the "pace" of an unfolding texture to discern when and where to take action. The presentation prompts audiences to consider...
Read more
Use with Accreditation
English
0:19
Pacing Changes with Living Systems: Rhythmic threads in textures, rhythmic textures of threads
This talk outlines the core concepts of Pacing Changes which sees systems as lines (or threads) weaving through time rhythmically, as opposed to a spatial layout. This reframe moves "systems change" away from a dominant "freeze-change-unfreeze" approach and instead focuses on the "pace" of an unfolding texture to discern when and where to take action. The presentation prompts audiences to consider...
Use with Accreditation
English
SSM/VSM Case Study
Using Soft Systems Methodology (SSM) with some Viable System Methodology (VSM) modelling to explore how best to regulate a specific construction product
PROJECT Using Soft Systems Methodology (SSM) with some Viable System Methodology (VSM) modelling to explore how best to regulate a specific construction product. PRACTITIONER Geraldine Hearne, Office for Product Safety & Standards - Department of Business & Trade APPROX. DATE 2024-2026 SITUATION AND CONTEXT In the wake of the Grenfell tragedy, the Hackitt report recommended that Government should...
Read more
Contact the Author
English
SSM/VSM Case Study
Using Soft Systems Methodology (SSM) with some Viable System Methodology (VSM) modelling to explore how best to regulate a specific construction product
PROJECT Using Soft Systems Methodology (SSM) with some Viable System Methodology (VSM) modelling to explore how best to regulate a specific construction product. PRACTITIONER Geraldine Hearne, Office for Product Safety & Standards - Department of Business & Trade APPROX. DATE 2024-2026 SITUATION AND CONTEXT In the wake of the Grenfell tragedy, the Hackitt report recommended that Government should...
Contact the Author
English
0:24
A cybernetic perspective on service provision in medium-sized enterprises – current status of implementation in the company and outlook for the research project
Carola is leading a project at her employer's company that aims to transform the traditional hierarchical organisational structure of the owner-managed business into a cybernetic model based on Stafford Beer's Viable System Model (VSM). The planned contribution to SysPrac will first briefly outline the genesis of the project and the implementation steps achieved so far in the company. The second...
Read more
Contact the Author
English
0:24
A cybernetic perspective on service provision in medium-sized enterprises – current status of implementation in the company and outlook for the research project
Carola is leading a project at her employer's company that aims to transform the traditional hierarchical organisational structure of the owner-managed business into a cybernetic model based on Stafford Beer's Viable System Model (VSM). The planned contribution to SysPrac will first briefly outline the genesis of the project and the implementation steps achieved so far in the company. The second...
Contact the Author
English
Patterns of Strategy (POS) - workshop at SysPrac25
The Patterns of Strategy Workshop introduces a practical way of thinking about strategy developed by Patrick Hoverstadt and Lucy Loh. Instead of static plans, it explores how organisations co-evolve with their environment, focusing on the dynamics of relationships, structural couplings, and shifts in power, time, and fit. The workshop helps leaders see strategy as an emergent process—shaped...
Read more
Contact the Author
English
Patterns of Strategy (POS) - workshop at SysPrac25
The Patterns of Strategy Workshop introduces a practical way of thinking about strategy developed by Patrick Hoverstadt and Lucy Loh. Instead of static plans, it explores how organisations co-evolve with their environment, focusing on the dynamics of relationships, structural couplings, and shifts in power, time, and fit. The workshop helps leaders see strategy as an emergent process—shaped...
Contact the Author
English
Shifting Mindsets At This Pivotal Time
We are at a pivotal time of fundamental shapeshifting - where we get to choose which path we go on next in the midst of uncertainty and chaos. What we do now matters like never before and what we decide will have major consequences for the generations to come. There has been a lot of focus on technologies, new governance and compliance standards. But there is much less reflection and talk about...
Read more
Contact the Author
English
Shifting Mindsets At This Pivotal Time
We are at a pivotal time of fundamental shapeshifting - where we get to choose which path we go on next in the midst of uncertainty and chaos. What we do now matters like never before and what we decide will have major consequences for the generations to come. There has been a lot of focus on technologies, new governance and compliance standards. But there is much less reflection and talk about...
Contact the Author
English
CSH case study
How Communities can better support people living in asylum hotel accommodation
PROJECT How Communities can better support people living in asylum hotel accommodation. Situation & Context Across the Diocese of Westminster, churches and faith-based groups increasingly found themselves supporting asylum seekers housed in hotels under the UK asylum system. While volunteers are eager to help, many face restrictions in accessing the hotels and are overwhelmed by the magnitude and...
Read more
Use with Accreditation
English
CSH case study
How Communities can better support people living in asylum hotel accommodation
PROJECT How Communities can better support people living in asylum hotel accommodation. Situation & Context Across the Diocese of Westminster, churches and faith-based groups increasingly found themselves supporting asylum seekers housed in hotels under the UK asylum system. While volunteers are eager to help, many face restrictions in accessing the hotels and are overwhelmed by the magnitude and...
Use with Accreditation
English
0:24
Applying systems thinking approaches to promote the psychosocial well-being of children and young people with cancer and their families.
This presentation outlines the development of the North Star Cancer Collective, a collaboration of UK charities applying systems thinking to improve the psychosocial well-being of children and young people with cancer and their families. Emerging from partnerships in service delivery, the initiative evolved into a collective impact model grounded in shared evidence, lived experience, and a common...
Read more
Contact the Author
English
0:24
Applying systems thinking approaches to promote the psychosocial well-being of children and young people with cancer and their families.
This presentation outlines the development of the North Star Cancer Collective, a collaboration of UK charities applying systems thinking to improve the psychosocial well-being of children and young people with cancer and their families. Emerging from partnerships in service delivery, the initiative evolved into a collective impact model grounded in shared evidence, lived experience, and a common...
Contact the Author
English
0:22
Viable system model as an organisational framework for the integration of different AI applications within the healthcare organisations
This presentation explores the Viable System Model (VSM) as a framework for integrating artificial intelligence (AI) applications in healthcare organizations. Drawing from clinical experience and healthcare risk management, the speaker emphasizes that every medical institution requires a coherent AI strategy aligned with its strengths and weaknesses. The VSM, developed by Stafford Beer, models...
Read more
Contact the Author
English
0:22
Viable system model as an organisational framework for the integration of different AI applications within the healthcare organisations
This presentation explores the Viable System Model (VSM) as a framework for integrating artificial intelligence (AI) applications in healthcare organizations. Drawing from clinical experience and healthcare risk management, the speaker emphasizes that every medical institution requires a coherent AI strategy aligned with its strengths and weaknesses. The VSM, developed by Stafford Beer, models...
Contact the Author
English
SSM/VSM Case Study
From grievance to growth in systems thinking practice
How can systems thinking help turn frustration into insight and organisational learning? This reflective case study follows a charity leader’s journey from personal grievance to systemic understanding. Using Soft Systems Methodology, the Viable System Model and feedback loops, Nicola explores how inquiry and reflection can transform tensions, improve governance and reconnect purpose with practice...
Read more
Confidential – Members Only
English
SSM/VSM Case Study
From grievance to growth in systems thinking practice
How can systems thinking help turn frustration into insight and organisational learning? This reflective case study follows a charity leader’s journey from personal grievance to systemic understanding. Using Soft Systems Methodology, the Viable System Model and feedback loops, Nicola explores how inquiry and reflection can transform tensions, improve governance and reconnect purpose with practice...
Confidential – Members Only
English
0:24
Reflections on 50 years of seeing life through a systems thinking lens, covering government organisations and society
Ed Straw reflects on 50 years in systems thinking - political science as an oxymoron and the policy trap, the best is the enemy of the good, 2% of bees experiment, government is structurally determined to fail with IT projects, ‘It’s the System!’, etc. Apologies that the first minute is missing - camera setup issue! [Presented at SysPrac25 - 3-4th September 2025 at the Open University in Milton...
Read more
Use with Accreditation
English
0:24
Reflections on 50 years of seeing life through a systems thinking lens, covering government organisations and society
Ed Straw reflects on 50 years in systems thinking - political science as an oxymoron and the policy trap, the best is the enemy of the good, 2% of bees experiment, government is structurally determined to fail with IT projects, ‘It’s the System!’, etc. Apologies that the first minute is missing - camera setup issue! [Presented at SysPrac25 - 3-4th September 2025 at the Open University in Milton...
Use with Accreditation
English
0:26
Complexity Governance: Structural and Cognitive Underpinnings of Adaptive Institutions
This talk is about the "complexity gap" and general governance crisis created by the increasing complexity and uncertainty of the world at all levels of the society (individuals, organizations, governments and multinational institutions). It introduces a general challenge-capacity framework based on Ashby's Law of Requisite Variety for analyzing the governance crisis and developing more adaptive...
Read more
Use with Accreditation
English
0:26
Complexity Governance: Structural and Cognitive Underpinnings of Adaptive Institutions
This talk is about the "complexity gap" and general governance crisis created by the increasing complexity and uncertainty of the world at all levels of the society (individuals, organizations, governments and multinational institutions). It introduces a general challenge-capacity framework based on Ashby's Law of Requisite Variety for analyzing the governance crisis and developing more adaptive...
Use with Accreditation
English
0:56
The Machinery, the Mindset and the Mission: systems thinking in the machinery of Government and why it matters - keynote at SysPrac25
This talk offers a candid exploration of systems thinking within the UK Government, delivered from the unique perspective of a senior civil servant. Drawing on practical examples such as natural flood risk management and the Troubled Families programme, the speaker illustrates both the power and the challenges of applying systemic approaches to complex public sector problems. The abstract...
Read more
Confidential – Members Only
English
0:56
The Machinery, the Mindset and the Mission: systems thinking in the machinery of Government and why it matters - keynote at SysPrac25
This talk offers a candid exploration of systems thinking within the UK Government, delivered from the unique perspective of a senior civil servant. Drawing on practical examples such as natural flood risk management and the Troubled Families programme, the speaker illustrates both the power and the challenges of applying systemic approaches to complex public sector problems. The abstract...
Confidential – Members Only
English
SSM/CSH/VSM Case Study
A Soft and Critical Systems approach exploring Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) challenges in a Research Project Team
PROJECT A Soft and Critical Systems approach exploring Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) challenges in a Research Project Team PRACTITIONER Emilia Slawkowska APPROX. DATE 2023/24 SITUATION AND CONTEXT EDI implementation requires a holistic and systematic approach addressing root causes whilst setting clear goals and providing actionable solutions. This intervention focused on a Research...
Read more
Use with Accreditation
English
SSM/CSH/VSM Case Study
A Soft and Critical Systems approach exploring Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) challenges in a Research Project Team
PROJECT A Soft and Critical Systems approach exploring Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) challenges in a Research Project Team PRACTITIONER Emilia Slawkowska APPROX. DATE 2023/24 SITUATION AND CONTEXT EDI implementation requires a holistic and systematic approach addressing root causes whilst setting clear goals and providing actionable solutions. This intervention focused on a Research...
Use with Accreditation
English
0:35 +Q
Finding A New Rhythm: Exploring VSM for Social Change
This talk explores a new interpretation and extends Beer’s VSM model towards the application of social change in times of turbulence and uncertainty. Inspired by music design theory, this talk highlights the importance of creativity and finding your instrument for social innovation. Despair need not flourish. https://www.kim-mclear.com/
Read more
Contact the Author
English
0:35 +Q
Finding A New Rhythm: Exploring VSM for Social Change
This talk explores a new interpretation and extends Beer’s VSM model towards the application of social change in times of turbulence and uncertainty. Inspired by music design theory, this talk highlights the importance of creativity and finding your instrument for social innovation. Despair need not flourish. https://www.kim-mclear.com/
Contact the Author
English
0:43 +Q
The Process of Translating Systems Thinking into Real-World Platforms through Participatory System Dynamics Modelling
Translating Systems Thinking into practical, real-world applications can be challenging. How can we collaboratively create outcomes that are compelling enough to influence policy, or accessible enough for widespread adoption? What process can we follow to form systemic maps and transform these into actionable blueprints? In this session, Teun will guide us through the process of participatory...
Read more
Contact the Author
English
0:43 +Q
The Process of Translating Systems Thinking into Real-World Platforms through Participatory System Dynamics Modelling
Translating Systems Thinking into practical, real-world applications can be challenging. How can we collaboratively create outcomes that are compelling enough to influence policy, or accessible enough for widespread adoption? What process can we follow to form systemic maps and transform these into actionable blueprints? In this session, Teun will guide us through the process of participatory...
Contact the Author
English
0:33
Values In Action: A Critical Systems Heuristics Workbook
Values in Action is a hands-on, thought-provoking and practical workbook designed to equip people with tools to explore, question, and strengthen the ethical and practical foundations of their and others' decision-making. The purpose of the workbook is to enable you and others make well-grounded claims that whatever you are doing is the right thing to do. That claim to ‘rightness’ is, individually...
Read more
English
0:33
Values In Action: A Critical Systems Heuristics Workbook
Values in Action is a hands-on, thought-provoking and practical workbook designed to equip people with tools to explore, question, and strengthen the ethical and practical foundations of their and others' decision-making. The purpose of the workbook is to enable you and others make well-grounded claims that whatever you are doing is the right thing to do. That claim to ‘rightness’ is, individually...
German
0:41
Von Grundbegriffen und sozioökologischen Systemen
Transformationen wirksam begleiten zu können, erfordert inhärente Komplexität anzuerkennen und einen konstruktiven Umgang damit zu finden. In diesem Vortrag beleuchten wir die Prinzipien unserer Wahrnehmung und entdecken gemeinsam ein von C. S. Holling inspiriertes Modell organisatorischer Weiterentwicklung. Wir betrachten wie präzise Sprache und bewusste Perspektivwechsel entscheidend dazu...
Read more
German
0:41
Von Grundbegriffen und sozioökologischen Systemen
Transformationen wirksam begleiten zu können, erfordert inhärente Komplexität anzuerkennen und einen konstruktiven Umgang damit zu finden. In diesem Vortrag beleuchten wir die Prinzipien unserer Wahrnehmung und entdecken gemeinsam ein von C. S. Holling inspiriertes Modell organisatorischer Weiterentwicklung. Wir betrachten wie präzise Sprache und bewusste Perspektivwechsel entscheidend dazu...
English
Case Study
Cultural inquiry and complexity
PROJECT Cultural inquiry and complexity PRACTITIONER Benjamin Taylor, RedQuadrant APPROX. DATE 2017–ongoing SITUATION AND CONTEXT Many clients asked for ‘culture change’—but didn’t know what culture was or how it changed. Existing tools were either superficial or overly rigid. SYSTEM OF INTEREST Organisational culture as a dynamic, emergent system shaped by behaviours, stories, systems, and power...
Read more
English
Case Study
Cultural inquiry and complexity
PROJECT Cultural inquiry and complexity PRACTITIONER Benjamin Taylor, RedQuadrant APPROX. DATE 2017–ongoing SITUATION AND CONTEXT Many clients asked for ‘culture change’—but didn’t know what culture was or how it changed. Existing tools were either superficial or overly rigid. SYSTEM OF INTEREST Organisational culture as a dynamic, emergent system shaped by behaviours, stories, systems, and power...
English
Free PDF
The 55 Minutes: An atlas to navigate problems, reveal systems, and ask beautiful questions in a radically shifting world
RRP: £18.41; Paperback: 572 pp; Publisher: Atco Spacelab; ISBN 978-1069483508 - also available as a FREE pdf download, follow link Albert Einstein is credited with saying, "If I had an hour to solve a problem, I'd spend fifty-five minutes thinking about the problem and five minutes thinking about solutions." This book is about how to use those metaphorical first fifty-five minutes wisely. If...
Read more
English
Free PDF
The 55 Minutes: An atlas to navigate problems, reveal systems, and ask beautiful questions in a radically shifting world
RRP: £18.41; Paperback: 572 pp; Publisher: Atco Spacelab; ISBN 978-1069483508 - also available as a FREE pdf download, follow link Albert Einstein is credited with saying, "If I had an hour to solve a problem, I'd spend fifty-five minutes thinking about the problem and five minutes thinking about solutions." This book is about how to use those metaphorical first fifty-five minutes wisely. If...
English
0:32 +Q
Practical Application of Systems Thinking to Enterprise Design
Organisations are “social activity systems”. People come together and create a system to produce products and services for other people to benefit from, either for the purposes of financial and/or social gain. This talk is about how we design these systems and on the discipline of Business Architecture and Target Operating Model design, or what is often today referred to as “Enterprise Design”...
Read more
Use with Accreditation
English
0:32 +Q
Practical Application of Systems Thinking to Enterprise Design
Organisations are “social activity systems”. People come together and create a system to produce products and services for other people to benefit from, either for the purposes of financial and/or social gain. This talk is about how we design these systems and on the discipline of Business Architecture and Target Operating Model design, or what is often today referred to as “Enterprise Design”...
Use with Accreditation
German
120pp
Konzepte der Komplexität: Eine sehr kurze Einführung
FREE to download 120 pp Publisher: SCiO Publishing Dieses Buch bietet eine sehr kurze Einführung in das Themengebiet Komplexität und deren Anwendung in verschiedenen Disziplinen wie Naturwissenschaften, Systemtheorie, Kybernetik, Management und mehr. Es stellt grundlegende Theorien und Modelle vor, die das Verständnis von Dynamiken, Interaktionen und Mustern in komplexen Systemen vertiefen...
Read more
German
120pp
Konzepte der Komplexität: Eine sehr kurze Einführung
FREE to download 120 pp Publisher: SCiO Publishing Dieses Buch bietet eine sehr kurze Einführung in das Themengebiet Komplexität und deren Anwendung in verschiedenen Disziplinen wie Naturwissenschaften, Systemtheorie, Kybernetik, Management und mehr. Es stellt grundlegende Theorien und Modelle vor, die das Verständnis von Dynamiken, Interaktionen und Mustern in komplexen Systemen vertiefen...
English
0:30 +Q
Viable Service Management - Operational Loops
Steve looks into the operations space of service management systems where the user interfaces with the organisation. The focus is on three particular 'services': IT services, car repairs, and healthcare; and shows the similarities and differences in how they manage the different types of 'repair' (cybernetic) loops. Of particular interest is how the user is drawn into the organisation for these...
Read more
Use with Accreditation
English
0:30 +Q
Viable Service Management - Operational Loops
Steve looks into the operations space of service management systems where the user interfaces with the organisation. The focus is on three particular 'services': IT services, car repairs, and healthcare; and shows the similarities and differences in how they manage the different types of 'repair' (cybernetic) loops. Of particular interest is how the user is drawn into the organisation for these...
Use with Accreditation
English
120pp
Concepts of Complexity
FREE to download 120 pp Publisher: SCiO Publishing This book provides a very brief introduction to the topic of complexity and its application in various disciplines such as science, systems theory, cybernetics, management, and more. It presents fundamental theories and models that deepen the understanding of dynamics, interactions, and patterns in complex systems. Contributions by important...
Read more
English
120pp
Concepts of Complexity
FREE to download 120 pp Publisher: SCiO Publishing This book provides a very brief introduction to the topic of complexity and its application in various disciplines such as science, systems theory, cybernetics, management, and more. It presents fundamental theories and models that deepen the understanding of dynamics, interactions, and patterns in complex systems. Contributions by important...
English
Urban Mill Innovation Platform
Kari Mikkelä, M.Sc (Tech), Executive Producer, Urban Mill Innovation Platform; Ph.D. Candidate, Department of Industrial Engineering and Management, Aalto University Kari Mikkelä has over 30 years of academic, corporate, and NGO experience in learning, innovation, and business services. During his career, he has worked in and for several organizations in a variety of capacities specialized in...
Read more
Contact the Author
English
Urban Mill Innovation Platform
Kari Mikkelä, M.Sc (Tech), Executive Producer, Urban Mill Innovation Platform; Ph.D. Candidate, Department of Industrial Engineering and Management, Aalto University Kari Mikkelä has over 30 years of academic, corporate, and NGO experience in learning, innovation, and business services. During his career, he has worked in and for several organizations in a variety of capacities specialized in...
Contact the Author
English
How to Co-create Learning Spaces?
Tim Logan is Partner at Good Impact Labs, an education leader, connector and facilitator. Tim moves projects from innovative learning design to effectively executing ideas on the ground, swiftly. Bringing his extensive learnings and insights from a global career in youth work, teaching, school leadership and consultancy, Tim has worked with prominent clients around the world to develop new and...
Read more
Contact the Author
English
How to Co-create Learning Spaces?
Tim Logan is Partner at Good Impact Labs, an education leader, connector and facilitator. Tim moves projects from innovative learning design to effectively executing ideas on the ground, swiftly. Bringing his extensive learnings and insights from a global career in youth work, teaching, school leadership and consultancy, Tim has worked with prominent clients around the world to develop new and...
Contact the Author
English
Visualizations of the event
The images may be used and shared, provided that the author is credited as Annika Varjonen / Visual Impact and the name of the event – Learning Finland? Systemic Challenges and Opportunities – is mentioned alongside.
Read more
Contact the Author
English
Visualizations of the event
The images may be used and shared, provided that the author is credited as Annika Varjonen / Visual Impact and the name of the event – Learning Finland? Systemic Challenges and Opportunities – is mentioned alongside.
Contact the Author
English
Opening Address: Public sector innovation capacity: what influences public officials’ ability to learn, innovate and adapt to change?
Dr. Piret Tõnurist is a senior programme manager at the OECD, Observatory of Public Sector Innovation (OPSI), GOV/INDIGO. She leads OECD’s work on government innovation and is the co-founder of the cross-directorate Mission Action Lab. In previous years she managed OPSI’s work programme on systems thinking and created the work stream on anticipatory governance. Piret holds a research fellowship at...
Read more
Contact the Author
English
Opening Address: Public sector innovation capacity: what influences public officials’ ability to learn, innovate and adapt to change?
Dr. Piret Tõnurist is a senior programme manager at the OECD, Observatory of Public Sector Innovation (OPSI), GOV/INDIGO. She leads OECD’s work on government innovation and is the co-founder of the cross-directorate Mission Action Lab. In previous years she managed OPSI’s work programme on systems thinking and created the work stream on anticipatory governance. Piret holds a research fellowship at...
Contact the Author
English
System of Learning Systems
As systems evolve – whether cognitive, organizational, or societal – they must be organized according to a logic that matches the complexity of their environment, the epistemic capacity of their agents, and the metaphysical stance through which meaning is made. In this presentation, Dr. Janne J. Korhonen introduces the concept of Vertical Multiparadigmatism: a framework that weaves together four...
Read more
Contact the Author
English
System of Learning Systems
As systems evolve – whether cognitive, organizational, or societal – they must be organized according to a logic that matches the complexity of their environment, the epistemic capacity of their agents, and the metaphysical stance through which meaning is made. In this presentation, Dr. Janne J. Korhonen introduces the concept of Vertical Multiparadigmatism: a framework that weaves together four...
Contact the Author
English
Why Finland seems well placed to enact systemic governance?
Ray Ison is Professor Emeritus of Systems at the UK Open University (OU), where he has contributed to systems thinking and practice since 1994. He played a key role in OU’s Systems Thinking in Practice (STiP) program, leading research, teaching, and the professionalization of Systems Thinking Practitioner Apprenticeships. His research spans sustainability, governance, and learning systems...
Read more
Contact the Author
English
Why Finland seems well placed to enact systemic governance?
Ray Ison is Professor Emeritus of Systems at the UK Open University (OU), where he has contributed to systems thinking and practice since 1994. He played a key role in OU’s Systems Thinking in Practice (STiP) program, leading research, teaching, and the professionalization of Systems Thinking Practitioner Apprenticeships. His research spans sustainability, governance, and learning systems...
Contact the Author
German
0:55
Regeneratives Wirtschaften – Hebel und Werkzeuge für Organisationen
Wie können Unternehmen über Nachhaltigkeit hinausgehen und aktiv zur Regeneration ökologischer, sozialer und wirtschaftlicher Systeme beitragen? Und worin liegt überhaupt der Unterschied zwischen Nachhaltigkeit und Regeneration? Dieser Vortrag beleuchtet Grundlagen, aber auch Hebel und Ansätze die Organisationen nutzen können, um diesen Wandel in ihren Strukturen und Prozessen zu verankern. Marcel...
Read more
German
0:55
Regeneratives Wirtschaften – Hebel und Werkzeuge für Organisationen
Wie können Unternehmen über Nachhaltigkeit hinausgehen und aktiv zur Regeneration ökologischer, sozialer und wirtschaftlicher Systeme beitragen? Und worin liegt überhaupt der Unterschied zwischen Nachhaltigkeit und Regeneration? Dieser Vortrag beleuchtet Grundlagen, aber auch Hebel und Ansätze die Organisationen nutzen können, um diesen Wandel in ihren Strukturen und Prozessen zu verankern. Marcel...
English
Wholehearted: Engaging with Complexity in the Deliberately Adaptive Organisation
RRP: £18; Paperback: 267 pp; Publisher: Agendashift Press; ISBN 978-1068443602 How do leaders at all scales of organisation create the conditions for innovation, excellence, and performance? Initial clues are to be found in the Wholehearted organisation – one that recognises the leadership of those who find the right challenges to engage with, invite others into that process, and celebrate...
Read more
English
Wholehearted: Engaging with Complexity in the Deliberately Adaptive Organisation
RRP: £18; Paperback: 267 pp; Publisher: Agendashift Press; ISBN 978-1068443602 How do leaders at all scales of organisation create the conditions for innovation, excellence, and performance? Initial clues are to be found in the Wholehearted organisation – one that recognises the leadership of those who find the right challenges to engage with, invite others into that process, and celebrate...
English
0:53 +Q
To CLD or not, that is the question
Peter shares his experience from over thirty years of systems thinking practice majoring on the use and application of system dynamics modelling in the health and care sector with a focus on the place that Causal Loop Diagrams have played in that work. He will cover its contribution to introducing people to systems thinking as it supports system dynamics modelling and its application in...
Read more
Contact the Author
English
0:53 +Q
To CLD or not, that is the question
Peter shares his experience from over thirty years of systems thinking practice majoring on the use and application of system dynamics modelling in the health and care sector with a focus on the place that Causal Loop Diagrams have played in that work. He will cover its contribution to introducing people to systems thinking as it supports system dynamics modelling and its application in...
Contact the Author
English
0:22+0:23 +Q
Multi-Methodology Approaches in System Thinking
Historically, practitioners have often relied on a single familiar approach based on their training, education, or personal biases. However, systems practitioners possess a variety of systems approaches, leading to the question: which approach should be used for what purpose and why? This session explores various methods for selecting and utilising multiple systems approaches in real-world...
Read more
Use with Accreditation
English
0:22+0:23 +Q
Multi-Methodology Approaches in System Thinking
Historically, practitioners have often relied on a single familiar approach based on their training, education, or personal biases. However, systems practitioners possess a variety of systems approaches, leading to the question: which approach should be used for what purpose and why? This session explores various methods for selecting and utilising multiple systems approaches in real-world...
Use with Accreditation
English
0:19 +Q
Introduction to Critical Social Learning Systems
Social learning is a set of principles, activities and behaviours, relating to how people collaborate and co-operate to learn in a variety of situations within institutional and organisational structures. This brief introduction explores its principles and methods, as well as providing an illustration of how it has been applied in a micro-enterprise environment, where individuals or small...
Read more
Use with Accreditation
English
0:19 +Q
Introduction to Critical Social Learning Systems
Social learning is a set of principles, activities and behaviours, relating to how people collaborate and co-operate to learn in a variety of situations within institutional and organisational structures. This brief introduction explores its principles and methods, as well as providing an illustration of how it has been applied in a micro-enterprise environment, where individuals or small...
Use with Accreditation
English
0:53 +Q
Psychological safety as a systemic construct: implications for social services
Psychological safety—feeling safe to be oneself, take risks, and speak candidly—has been predominantly instrumentalised as a tool for driving innovation and profit in organisations. This presentation argues for a fundamental shift in perspective: feeling safe is a basic human right, not merely a means to an end. The current focus on staff dynamics often overlooks service recipients, creating an...
Read more
Confidential – Members Only
English
0:53 +Q
Psychological safety as a systemic construct: implications for social services
Psychological safety—feeling safe to be oneself, take risks, and speak candidly—has been predominantly instrumentalised as a tool for driving innovation and profit in organisations. This presentation argues for a fundamental shift in perspective: feeling safe is a basic human right, not merely a means to an end. The current focus on staff dynamics often overlooks service recipients, creating an...
Confidential – Members Only
English
0:40 +Q
Fundamentals of System Thinking
Systems thinking is interpreted differently depending on perception and context, yet identifying its fundamentals is crucial. If it has evolved into a “brand name” for a way of thinking—both intuitive and learnable—then certain core elements must be present for it to hold meaning, much like a hoover must clean and store dirt. However, no definitive definition exists, and a universal one is...
Read more
Use with Accreditation
English
0:40 +Q
Fundamentals of System Thinking
Systems thinking is interpreted differently depending on perception and context, yet identifying its fundamentals is crucial. If it has evolved into a “brand name” for a way of thinking—both intuitive and learnable—then certain core elements must be present for it to hold meaning, much like a hoover must clean and store dirt. However, no definitive definition exists, and a universal one is...
Use with Accreditation
English
0:48
opening the box - communicating systems thinking (to SCiO DACH)
"Opening the Box: Systems Thinking for Transformative Conversations" delves into the core principles of systems thinking, offering practical insights to help individuals and organizations navigate complexity. Authored by Jan De Visch, Miguel Pantaleon, Namrata Arora and Tony Korycki, this book promises to be an invaluable resource for anyone interested in understanding and applying systems...
Read more
Use with Accreditation
English
0:48
opening the box - communicating systems thinking (to SCiO DACH)
"Opening the Box: Systems Thinking for Transformative Conversations" delves into the core principles of systems thinking, offering practical insights to help individuals and organizations navigate complexity. Authored by Jan De Visch, Miguel Pantaleon, Namrata Arora and Tony Korycki, this book promises to be an invaluable resource for anyone interested in understanding and applying systems...
Use with Accreditation
English
0:49 +Q
Unlocking the Power of Logical Frameworks (LogFrames)
Gavin Roberts and Carla Owen give an enlightening talk on the power of logical frameworks. They explore a range of systems concepts to position logical frameworks – or logframes – within a broader systems context, including PQRs, laddering, and Gregory Bateson's work on logical levels of thinking. They show how logframes can enhance group understanding, communication, and decision-making in...
Read more
Confidential – Members Only
English
0:49 +Q
Unlocking the Power of Logical Frameworks (LogFrames)
Gavin Roberts and Carla Owen give an enlightening talk on the power of logical frameworks. They explore a range of systems concepts to position logical frameworks – or logframes – within a broader systems context, including PQRs, laddering, and Gregory Bateson's work on logical levels of thinking. They show how logframes can enhance group understanding, communication, and decision-making in...
Confidential – Members Only
English
0:27 +Q
Strategic Lessons Through a Systems Thinking Lens
In complex and high-stakes environments, stability is an illusion. Reflecting on my experiences as a soldier in Afghanistan, this talk explores the challenges of adapting strategy and execution in the face of chaos, risk aversion, and an agile adversary. Through the lens of systems thinking, I’ll unpack the principles and dynamics that underpin strategic adaptation, highlighting the need for...
Read more
Use with Accreditation
English
0:27 +Q
Strategic Lessons Through a Systems Thinking Lens
In complex and high-stakes environments, stability is an illusion. Reflecting on my experiences as a soldier in Afghanistan, this talk explores the challenges of adapting strategy and execution in the face of chaos, risk aversion, and an agile adversary. Through the lens of systems thinking, I’ll unpack the principles and dynamics that underpin strategic adaptation, highlighting the need for...
Use with Accreditation
English
Transforming Public Health Provision with Systems Thinking
Nirosha’s leadership and innovative approaches learnt through JGA’s Systems Thinking apprenticeship have transformed how her team tackles public health challenges, inspiring her colleagues to adopt more comprehensive and interconnected strategies. Currently, she has just secured a critical grant for her department off the back of systems thinking methodologies. Nirosha is also co-authoring a...
Read more
English
Transforming Public Health Provision with Systems Thinking
Nirosha’s leadership and innovative approaches learnt through JGA’s Systems Thinking apprenticeship have transformed how her team tackles public health challenges, inspiring her colleagues to adopt more comprehensive and interconnected strategies. Currently, she has just secured a critical grant for her department off the back of systems thinking methodologies. Nirosha is also co-authoring a...
English
SSM/CSH/VSM Case Study
Redefining Leadership: The Power of Systems Thinking in Creating More Equitable Access
Georgina Wilson, [a JGA STiP apprencticeship graduate] Founder and CEO of BUD Leaders, has spent over a decade pioneering systems change initiatives that empower Black and other Global Majority women in business. Through BUD Leaders, a pioneering black-led, female-led social enterprise, Georgina works to disrupt leadership structures and drive equity. Her organisation collaborates with large...
Read more
English
SSM/CSH/VSM Case Study
Redefining Leadership: The Power of Systems Thinking in Creating More Equitable Access
Georgina Wilson, [a JGA STiP apprencticeship graduate] Founder and CEO of BUD Leaders, has spent over a decade pioneering systems change initiatives that empower Black and other Global Majority women in business. Through BUD Leaders, a pioneering black-led, female-led social enterprise, Georgina works to disrupt leadership structures and drive equity. Her organisation collaborates with large...
Spanish
0:47 +Q
"abriendo la caja" Pensamiento sistémico para conversaciones transformadoras
"abriendo la caja" es una introducción a cuatro formas de pensar sobre la realidad que nos rodea que nos ayudan una perspectiva más holistica y facilitan tener conversaciones más profundas y prácticas sobre cómo navegar la complejidad y la incertidumbre. Timecode 0:00 - Intro 0:35 - Capítulo 1: La conversación 3:30 - Los retos de la conversación 10:06 - Capítulo 2: "Abriendo la Caja" 12:10 - La...
Read more
Use with Accreditation
Spanish
0:47 +Q
"abriendo la caja" Pensamiento sistémico para conversaciones transformadoras
"abriendo la caja" es una introducción a cuatro formas de pensar sobre la realidad que nos rodea que nos ayudan una perspectiva más holistica y facilitan tener conversaciones más profundas y prácticas sobre cómo navegar la complejidad y la incertidumbre. Timecode 0:00 - Intro 0:35 - Capítulo 1: La conversación 3:30 - Los retos de la conversación 10:06 - Capítulo 2: "Abriendo la Caja" 12:10 - La...
Use with Accreditation
English
0:40 +Q
Helping people to learn about practising Systems Thinking
Practising Systems Thinking can be messy; the situations we inhabit are messy, the language of practise can be messy, the landscape of practitioners, bodies, evangelists, methods, and educational providers is undoubtedly complex. So how do we learn about how to practise, how is that different to 'teaching', and what opportunities are there out there for learning, without become technocractic. This...
Read more
Use with Accreditation
English
0:40 +Q
Helping people to learn about practising Systems Thinking
Practising Systems Thinking can be messy; the situations we inhabit are messy, the language of practise can be messy, the landscape of practitioners, bodies, evangelists, methods, and educational providers is undoubtedly complex. So how do we learn about how to practise, how is that different to 'teaching', and what opportunities are there out there for learning, without become technocractic. This...
Use with Accreditation
English
0:21 +Q
Causation seen through a Sociotechnical Lens
Root cause analysis, sometimes known as the 5 Whys, has been seen as a panacea or as a failure depending on how it’s used. One frequent problem with root cause analysis is that it is used to support a blame culture. Once we’ve found the person at the root of the problem (the one that made the ‘mistake’) and know who to blame we can proceed with a clear conscience. However, taking a look at a...
Read more
Use with Accreditation
English
0:21 +Q
Causation seen through a Sociotechnical Lens
Root cause analysis, sometimes known as the 5 Whys, has been seen as a panacea or as a failure depending on how it’s used. One frequent problem with root cause analysis is that it is used to support a blame culture. Once we’ve found the person at the root of the problem (the one that made the ‘mistake’) and know who to blame we can proceed with a clear conscience. However, taking a look at a...
Use with Accreditation
English
0:43
Systemic evaluation in an uncertain world
Evaluation is… "a way of thinking (and acting) that will not only aid your effectiveness, but also improve your capacity to make good decisions in your ordinary life" (based on Wadsworth, 2011). Why bother about 'evaluation'? Many of us are familiar with evaluation as a tool used in public policy to assess policies, programmes, projects and other interventions. Governments and public institutions...
Read more
Use with Accreditation
English
0:43
Systemic evaluation in an uncertain world
Evaluation is… "a way of thinking (and acting) that will not only aid your effectiveness, but also improve your capacity to make good decisions in your ordinary life" (based on Wadsworth, 2011). Why bother about 'evaluation'? Many of us are familiar with evaluation as a tool used in public policy to assess policies, programmes, projects and other interventions. Governments and public institutions...
Use with Accreditation
English
1:18 +Q
Humanizing the Corporation: A regenerative leadership playbook
In an era where the traditional corporate paradigm often views employees merely as cogs in the machinery of profit, Humanizing the Corporation: A Regenerative Leadership Playbook offers a revolutionary perspective. This insightful guide presents seven key principles to help organizations transition toward a more humane and sustainable way of operating. Jan De Visch and Kashmir Birk explain the key...
Read more
Use with Accreditation
English
1:18 +Q
Humanizing the Corporation: A regenerative leadership playbook
In an era where the traditional corporate paradigm often views employees merely as cogs in the machinery of profit, Humanizing the Corporation: A Regenerative Leadership Playbook offers a revolutionary perspective. This insightful guide presents seven key principles to help organizations transition toward a more humane and sustainable way of operating. Jan De Visch and Kashmir Birk explain the key...
Use with Accreditation