Overview:

In a world defined by complexity, linear thinking no longer works.

"Connecting the Dots: Systems Thinking for Complex Problem Solving" is a fast-paced, experiential course designed to help participants see the bigger picture, uncover hidden interdependencies, and solve problems that don't have clear boundaries or single causes.

Why should you Attend: This session introduces the principles, tools, and mindsets of systems thinking-a framework used by leading innovators, strategists, and change-makers to understand and shape complex systems. Through real-world examples, visual mapping exercises, and guided reflection, participants will learn how to analyze problems holistically, anticipate unintended consequences, and design solutions that endure.

By the end of the course, participants will be able to:

• Define systems thinking and differentiate it from reductionist or linear thinking
• Recognize patterns, feedback loops, and leverage points within complex systems
• Map a real-world system using simple visual tools (e.g., causal loop diagrams, iceberg model)
• Apply systems thinking frameworks to analyze a challenging situation in their work or organization
• Develop holistic, adaptive solutions that address root causes rather than symptoms
• Adopt a systems mindset for ongoing learning, collaboration, and problem-solving

• Understanding Complexity
  • Mini-lecture: Complicated vs. complex systems
  • Real-world case study: Why "fixes" often fail (e.g., traffic congestion, healthcare reforms, burnout)
  • Discussion: How linear solutions create unintended side effects


• What Is Systems Thinking?
  • The key principles: interdependence, feedback loops, emergence, leverage points
  • The Iceberg Model - from events to patterns to structure to mindset
  • Quick exercise: Identify hidden patterns beneath a familiar "surface problem"


• Tools for Systems Thinkers
  • Introduce Causal Loop Diagrams (CLDs) and Stock & Flow Models
  • Visual demo: How a small delay or feedback changes system behavior
  • Guided activity: Draw your first causal loop for a real or hypothetical problem (e.g., employee engagement, product adoption, or sustainability initiative)


• Practice - Mapping a Real Challenge
  • Small-group or solo exercise: Pick a challenge from your work/life
  • Step-by-step guidance:
    • Identify stakeholders and variables
    • Map causal links and feedback loops
    • Highlight reinforcing (R) and balancing (B) dynamics
  • Debrief: Where are the leverage points (high-impact interventions)?


• From Insight to Action
  • Translate map insights into systemic interventions
  • Introduce the Leverage Ladder: influence structure > behavior > outcomes
  • Example walkthrough: redesigning incentives in a team or ecosystem
  • Exercise: Define one structural change you could test in your own context


• Cultivating the Systems Mindset
  • Characteristics of systems thinkers: curiosity, humility, patience, pattern recognition
  • Practices for daily use: mapping, journaling, cross-disciplinary learning
  • Build your Personal Systems Thinking Action Plan
    • One challenge you'll reframe
    • One new lens you'll practice
    • One conversation you'll start differently


• Wrap-up & Reflection
  • Recap: from parts - patterns - purpose
  • Share key takeaways and "aha moments"
  • Q&A + list of recommended readings/tools
  • Optional: invite participants to post maps in a shared workspace (e.g., Miro/Notion)

• Leaders and managers navigating dynamic, interconnected environments
• Consultants, strategists, and policy professionals seeking frameworks for tackling multi-stakeholder problems
• Designers, innovators, and product teams working on complex systems (e.g., sustainability, healthcare, digital transformation)
• Educators, researchers, and students interested in holistic and integrative thinking
• Anyone who wants to move from "quick fixes" to sustainable, systemic change