System Dynamics

Laws of Natural Systems

Systems Thinking is finding patterns and relationships, and learning to reinforce or change these patterns to fulfill your vision and mission.

Natural Laws/Desired State
 vs.
 Experienced Dynamics
I. THE WHOLE SYSTEM:
"The whole is greater than the sum of its parts"
  1. Holism — overall broader perspectives, purpose-focused, synergy, ends.
  1. Parts Focused — suboptimal results, narrower views, means.
  1. Open Systems — to the environment, regular scanning, "outside-in," implications.
  1. Closed Systems — low environmental scanning or concern, parts focused.
  1. Boundaries — clarity of system, integrated, fit, collaborative, complimentary.
  1. Fragmented — turf battles, overlaps, duplication, voids.
  1. Input/Output — how natural systems operate, "backwards thinking."
  1. Sequential — linear, mechanistic, piecemeal,
    analytic, forecasts.
  1. Feedback — on effectiveness, results, "feedback
    is a gift,"     encourage it.
  1. Low feedback — financial only, defensiveness,
    lack of measures.
  1. Multiple outcomes — goal seeking at all levels (WIIFM).
  1. Conflict — " either/or" thinking, "yes, but"; one
    best way.
II. THE INNER WORKINGS:
"Synergy, integration, relationships, and interdependence"
  1. Equifinality — flexible and adaptive, outcome focused, empower means.
  1. Direct Cause-Effect — one best way, quick fix fails, activity focused.
  1. Entropy — follow-up, inputs of energy, renewal, "booster shots."
  1. Decline — obsolescence, rigidity and death.
  1. Hierarchy — flatter organization, self organizing,
    order emerges.
  1. Bureaucracy — command and control, policies paramount, centralized.
  1. Relationships / Related Parts — Patterns, webs, interdependence and leverage, fit.
  1. Separate Parts — components, silos, individualism, parts are primary.
  1. Dynamic Equilibrium — maintain stability and balance/ culture, self-regulating (disequilibrium on
    the edge).
  1. Resistance to Change — myopic view; ruts, habits, root causes delayed in time and space.
  1. Internal Elaboration — details and sophistication, clarity and simplicity.
  1. Complexity — and confusion/chaos.

Academy of Management Journal, 1972
Annual Yearbook of the Society of General Systems Research

 
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