System Thinking
Systems often behave unpredictably because of these, the time lags between changing flows and the visible effect on stocks.
What are delays?
This tool digs deeper into a problem by repeatedly asking the same simple question.
What is the 5 Whys?
This CPS tool turns ideas into steps by asking “Who will do what, and by when?”
What is Building an Action Plan?
Systems often stabilize themselves through this type of feedback loop, which counteracts change and keeps the system in check.
What is a balancing feedback loop?
In this CPS tool, “Adapt” and “Modify” are two of the seven strategies used to transform existing ideas into new possibilities.
What is SCAMPER?
In this model, ideas are sorted into four colors for eliminatopn, expansion, passing along, and building solutions
What is the FourSight Model?
This systems trap occurs when individuals overuse a shared resource for personal gain, eventually depleting it for everyone.
What is the Tragedy of the Commons?
This tool helps thinkers climb from concrete details to abstract concepts, and back again, to see how “a single tree” connects to “an entire forest.”
What is Ladder of Abstraction?
In this CPS tool, the factors that both assist and resist a challenge are identified as these, which guide planning.
What are key planning factors?