Systems Thinking and Systems Research

 "Systems Thinking is a mindset - a way of seeing, thinking and approaching the world that embraces and understands interconnectedness. It also refers to a set of concepts and easily applied tools that help us understand how the pieces fit together, transforming the way we think about problem solving.

Systems thinking enables us to understand complex problems and changes the way we approach them. Applying systems thinking “habits” and tools can help us better understand the consequences of interconnectedness, especially in the context of equity and sustainability issues.

Applying a systems thinking approach helps to ensure we do not produce more problems than we solve. When you learn to think in systems you discover how complex patterns of behaviour can arise from simple structures and simple rules. You develop a deeper understanding of how the world works and you start to see the systems around you in a new light. Through this, you begin to develop a new mental framework for analyzing complex problems - whether they be in your family, your workplace, your country, or global in scale." (Systems Thinking Toolkit)

To learn more about Systems Thinking, select the "Further Readings" tab (the next one over):

"Systems mapping is a collaborative learning process that aims to create a shared understanding of a system. It involves building a conceptual model of the system, focusing on our desired transformation and gaining support from key stakeholders involved in the system.

There are many types of charts, diagrams, and other infographics that collectively make up the toolkit of systems mapping. Here are some of the most common:

The Iceberg Model

• This simple metaphorical diagram encourages us to identify the patterns of behaviour and the system structures that give rise to the events that are readily observable “on the surface.”

Causal Loop and Stock & Flow Diagrams

• Made up of variables and arrows representing positive and negative cause-and-effect relationships, these maps directly address the structure of systems that gives rise to the patterns of behaviour that we observe.

Stakeholder Maps

• These maps are oriented around a particular issue and seek to understand which groups affect, or are affected by, it. Different types of stakeholder maps address varying characteristics of those stakeholders in relation to the issue, such as addressing their relative power and interest in the change initiative.

Network Maps

• These maps have actors as nodes and relationships as their connections. Network maps can help us to identify where and how information and resources might flow, based upon the quantity, configuration, and strength of ties between individuals and organisations.

Asset Maps

• These maps identify various resources that exist in a system and can help systems leaders identify critical partnerships based upon systems needs." (International Agency for the Prevention of Blindness)