As the world in which we live in becomes more and more reliant on technology, the challenges we face at work become increasingly complex. The type of thinking that we’ve been using to solve problems is often creating unpredictable repercussions that our linear mindsets haven’t been able preempt.
Human beings are instinctively programmed to think in linear ways. There are however a variety of thinking techniques that can be used to shift our thinking including design thinking, lateral thinking, critical thinking, divergent thinking and systems thinking.
Systems thinking is an approach that can be used to gain a broader perspective on situations and problem spaces. It enables you to view below the tip of the iceberg and understand the underlaying patterns, elements and mental models which influence and cause unpredicted behaviours and symptoms which some solutions may create.
The workshop aims to introduce you to a shift in thinking that makes solving complex problems more manageable. It will also hopefully inspire you to want to learn more about systems thinking and teach you some tools and methods that you can utilise in your own practice, to deliver better experiences to users.
It begins with taking you through the basic framework of Systems Thinking and provide you with a set of tools and methods that will help you shift mindsets and unravel the root cause of problems.
During this workshop you will:
Gain an understanding of what systems thinking is and how it can be applied to your work.
Shift your mindset from a linear one to a systems thinking mindset.
Learn hands on practical tools that you can use to solve problems of all shapes and sizes.
Be Inspired to delve deeper into the world of systems thinking to create change.
This workshop was presented at Last Conference in Sydney 2019, click here to view & download presentation.
Iceberg & 5 Why’s
This iceberg model canvas helps you think more systematically by breaking down a problem and distinguishing its symptoms from its root cause. This activity can be run in teams or as a large group printed as a large A0+ poster.
Archetype- Shifting the Burden
Use this archetype map to help you gain an insight into the behaviours and recurring patterns that the structure of the system may be creating or might create.
Mapping the Systems
Use this diagram to help you gain a big picture of all the systems that relate and connect to your problem space.
Problem Definition Canvas
This canvas can be used in workshops to help you gain an understanding of all the problems that exist within the business group or product team. It enables the team to clearly articulate the problem and create a unified understanding of its impact.
