Systems Thinking

 

What is System Thinking?

System thinking involves analyzing complex problems by taking a holistic view of the system rather than breaking it into smaller parts. This approach involves creating mental models and understanding the interconnectedness of different components within a system. By analyzing a problem in this way, system thinking can provide a more comprehensive solution that addresses all related issues, rather than just answering a specific question or part of the problem. Overall, system thinking is a valuable tool for understanding and solving complex problems.

System thinking is a holistic approach to problem-solving that involves looking at a system as a whole, rather than just its individual parts. In order to apply system thinking effectively, it is important to expand the boundaries of time and space and to improve our understanding of the physics of the system.

There are three components to applying system thinking:

1. "What you are doing" - this involves framing the problem with an expansive set of boundaries. By doing so, we can identify all the variables and factors that may impact the system, and consider how they interact with each other.
2. "How you are doing it" - this involves ensuring that all assumptions are represented visually and that we apply the scientific method approach. This means gathering data, testing hypotheses, and constantly refining our understanding of the system based on new information.
3. "How do you know you are done well" - this involves making useful sense of reality by analyzing the data, identifying patterns, and drawing conclusions. This step is crucial in determining whether our approach has been successful and whether we have effectively addressed the problem at hand.

Overall, applying system thinking requires a deep understanding of the system being analyzed, as well as a commitment to constantly refining our approach based on new information and data. By taking a holistic approach, we can identify solutions that address the root causes of problems, rather than simply treating the symptoms.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Types of problems

1.     Simple Problems

2.     Complicated Problems

3.     Complex Problems 

 Characteristics of a simple problem

1. Easy to define: Simple problems are typically straightforward and easy to define. They involve a single issue or problem that is clearly identifiable.
2. Most things are known: With simple problems, most of the relevant information is already known. There are usually no unexpected variables or factors involved.
3. A single problem: Simple problems typically involve a single problem or issue that needs to be addressed. There are no complex interactions or dependencies between different parts of the system.
4. Easier to solve: Simple problems are generally easier to solve than more complex problems. The necessary steps to solve the problem are well-known and easy to follow.
5. Solve without any expertise: Simple problems can often be solved without any expertise or specialized knowledge. The solution may be obvious or straightforward.
6. The outcome can be predicted: The outcome of solving a simple problem can usually be predicted with a high degree of certainty. There are usually no unexpected or unknown factors that could impact the outcome.

Characteristics of a complicated problem

1. Easy to define: Like simple problems, complicated problems are typically easy to define. They involve a single issue or problem that is clearly identifiable.
2. We know what we don't know: Unlike simple problems, complicated problems often involve aspects that are unknown or not well-understood. This means that we are aware of the gaps in our knowledge and can work to fill them.
3. Complicated but can be broken down into parts: Complicated problems are often complex and multifaceted, but they can be broken down into smaller, more manageable parts. By tackling each part separately, we can work towards a solution for the overall problem.
4. Formulae are critical and necessary: In order to solve complicated problems, formulae and established methods are often critical and necessary. These methods have been developed and refined over time and are based on a deep understanding of the problem at hand.
5. Harder to solve: Complicated problems are generally harder to solve than simple problems. They often require a high level of expertise and specialized knowledge in various fields.
6. High levels of expertise in various fields are necessary for better success: In order to solve complicated problems, it is often necessary to bring together experts from various fields who can each contribute their knowledge and expertise towards finding a solution.
7. The outcome can be predicted: Despite their complexity, the outcome of solving a complicated problem can usually be predicted with a high degree of certainty. By applying established methods and formulas, we can work towards a predictable outcome.

Characteristics of Complex Problem

1. Hard to define: Complex problems are often difficult to define because they involve multiple interrelated issues and factors. It may be unclear what the underlying problem is or how to address it.
2. We don't know what we don't know: Unlike complicated problems, complex problems often involve aspects that are unknown or not well-understood, but we may not even be aware of these gaps in our knowledge.
3. Cannot be broken down into parts: Complex problems cannot be easily broken down into smaller, more manageable parts. Instead, the different parts of the problem are interdependent and cannot be considered in isolation.
4. Formulae have a limited application: While established methods and formulas may be helpful in addressing complex problems, they often have limited application. This is because complex problems are unique and may require innovative approaches.
5. Can only be addressed but cannot be solved: Complex problems can often be addressed, but not solved. This means that we may be able to make progress toward a solution, but we may never fully resolve the problem.
6. Solvability is influenced by external factors: The solvability of complex problems is often influenced by external factors that are beyond our control. These may include political, social, or economic factors.
7. Expertise can contribute but is neither necessary nor sufficient to assure success: While expertise can be helpful in addressing complex problems, it is neither necessary nor sufficient to assure success. Success in addressing complex problems often requires collaboration and input from a variety of stakeholders.
8. Uncertainty of outcome and cannot be predicted: The outcome of addressing complex problems is often uncertain and cannot be predicted. This is because complex problems involve multiple interrelated factors that may interact in unexpected ways.

How to solve problems

When solving a problem, there are two main ways to approach it: linear/sequential thinking and non-linear thinking. Linear thinking is a step-by-step approach where you follow a series of steps to reach a solution. Non-linear thinking involves making connections between unrelated concepts to find a solution.

Linear thinking is logical and analytical, while non-linear thinking is creative and innovative. Both approaches have their strengths and weaknesses. Linear thinking is useful for straightforward problems that can be solved by breaking them down into smaller parts. Non-linear thinking is useful for complex problems that require a creative approach.

A combination of both approaches can lead to the best solutions. By using linear thinking to break down a problem into smaller parts, you can then use non-linear thinking to find creative solutions to each part.