Question

1. While there is no single discipline for systems thinking, there are some fundamental systems thinking approaches that are shared across fields. Please describe in detail.

Answer 1

Systems thinking is a holistic approach to integration and analysis based on the strong belief that the components of a system will act differently when not interconnected or isolated from the system. It also shows how system components work overtime within the system. Interdisciplinary fundamental systems thinking approaches include:

1. Interconnectedness of the components in a system:

This systems thinking approach requires a circular pattern, a deviation from the linear one. The principle behind this deviation is that every component is interconnected and dependent upon another for functioning and existence.

2. Synthesis or formation: This aspect refers to combining two or more things to create anything new. The goal here is the synthesis and not analysis and is a dissection of complexity into components for management purposes. Since all systems are complex and dynamic, a holistic approach is needed to understand the phenomena as a whole and parts, which is the essence of synthesis. This is dealt with in detail with the connections and relationships that make up the dynamic whole through the perspective of interconnectedness.

3. Studying the emergence: As per the systems point of view, larger complex things emerge from smaller simpler parts. Thus emergence can be viewed as the natural outcome of simpler parts coming and interacting together in unique and diverse ways.

4. Using feedback loops: In an interconnected system, constant feedback loops can be seen along with flows between components of a system. These are used for keen observation, understanding, and interventions once the dynamics and type are understood. These loops can be reinforcing or balancing. The reinforcing type is usually not the preferred one, as it causes a plentitude of one component, which gets continually refined and results in a takeover. A balancing loop is generally preferred, as the components within the system strive to balance everything and gets uniquely balanced.

5. Cause and effect based approach: Cause and effect of each component process is considered as significant contributors in system functioning. An unintentional action often results in malfunctioning of the system, which points to the importance of causality in systems thinking. This is all about the ability to decipher how components and their processes/actions influence each other.

6. Using systems mapping: A systems thinker uses many ways to do systems mapping, which includes analog cluster mapping, digital feedback analysis, etc. In systems mapping the components of a system are identified and mapped to understand how these are interconnected or related, and how they act in the complex system. These unique insights are used to develop shifts, interventions, or decision-making that will change the whole system in an effective manner.