We can’t solve problems with the same thinking that got you there
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The document discusses the importance of systems thinking in addressing complex problems by viewing them as interconnected parts rather than isolated issues. It emphasizes the need to shift mindsets and focus on underlying dynamics, using various tools and methodologies such as problem canvases and root cause analysis. A specific example regarding single-use plastic bags illustrates the adverse environmental effects and highlights the need for education and awareness to drive behavioral change.
We can’t solve problems with the same thinking that got you there
- 1. You can’t solve problems with the same thinking that got you there. Using systems thinking to shift your mindset to unravel complex problems “ “ SOL PANDIELLA-MCLEOD Photograph by Orren Jack Turner
- 2. Systems thinking: Seeing the bigger picture and connecting the dots
- 4. All systems can be divided into 3 key systems The natural systems that support life on earth ecological Industrial social The manufactured, material based systems produced for humans The intangible systems created by humans for social cohesion source: Dr Leyla Acaroglu, UNSCHOOL
- 5. ecological Industrial social Land & soil Climate Water Food chain Living creature
- 6. ecological Industrial social Settlements (cities) Transportation routes Communication systems Manufacturing Infrastructures
- 8. The human body contains many systems Digestive, circular, skeletal systems, etc. A system is a whole that cannot be divided into independent parts. The behaviour of each element has an effect on the whole. The behaviour of the elements and their effects on the whole are interdependent.
- 9. LINEAR THINKING SYSTEMS THINKING Break things into component pieces Try to fix symptoms Try to control chaos to create order Are concerned with the whole Are concerned with underlying dynamics Try to find patterns amid the chaos
- 10. LINEAR THINKING SYSTEMS THINKING
- 11. Shifting your thinking process requires more effort
- 12. Making the shift Instead of blaming someone, ask… Instead of thinking you know the answer… Instead of focusing on the one item… Instead of focusing on negative behaviours… Instead of… Try… “What influences that person?” Always look for evidence to confirm or disconfirm your theory. Look at all the variables that affect that item. Look at what’s motivating these behaviours or if they are masking a deeper problem. source: www.thesystemsthinker.com
- 13. The whole is greater than the sum of its parts. The blind men and the elephant. Everyone sees part of a more complex reality and tends to assume that what they see is the whole picture.
- 14. Mental models Schemas Biases an individuals construction of social reality
- 16. Understanding and being aware of our limitations with how we see the world. Everyone views the world through a different lens.
- 18. Define the problem Find the root cause of the problem See the BIG picture Understand the players Problem Canvas Co-creating Iceberg Model The 5 why’s The W Canvas User Journeys Touchpoint diagrams User Research Empathy maps User Segments & Personas Tools you can use to become a systems thinker. Context Map Fish bone diagram Archetype mapping Iceberg Canvas 3 Systems Mapping Defining mental models
- 19. Find the root cause of the problem Iceberg Canvas When to use: Project start phase, problem scooping phase, Discovery/ inceptions, kickoffs. Duration: 1hr group of 10 add more time for more people. What you need: A0 printouts of canvas OR draw up segments on whiteboard or large sheet and use extra sticky post it notes, fine tip sharpies
- 20. Find the root cause of the problem Iceberg Canvas When to use: Project start phase, problem scooping phase, Discovery/ inceptions, kickoffs. Duration: 1hr group of 10 add more time for more people. What you need: A0 printouts of canvas OR draw up segments on whiteboard or large sheet and use extra sticky post it notes, fine tip sharpies People are using plastic bags only once and throwing them away. It’s convenient to just use the ones supplied at the stores. People can’t be bothered to carry around their own They are lazy and don’t realise the impact It’s not seen as a bad thing & convenience wins over real issue Lack of education on the adverse effects Yes. Plastic bags as the main source of debris pollution in the ocean killing millions of creatures. It’s what I’ve always done, its convenient. Why are plastic bags so bad anyway? Social norms to do with shopping. Most stores just give them away for free. There are no regulations in stores. Policies in stores. Education campaigns to inform people of the impact of plastic bags. Businesses don’t want to annoy customers which might potentially deter them from shopping in their stores if they don’t provide free plastic bags. Marine life will continue to die, the amount of algae will be reduced and we will eventually deplete the oxygen levels in the atmosphere which will affect the health of humans and animals on earth.
- 21. Problem Canvas When to use: Project start phase, Discovery/inceptions, kickoffs, ideations Duration: 1-2hrs for a group of 10 Add more time if the number of people increases. What you need: A3 printouts of canvas & fine tip sharpies Define the problem
- 22. Define the problem Marine ecosystem & fossil fuels Reduce the use of single-use plastic in particular plastic grocery bags. It’s important because it is causing negative environmental impact & having an adverse reaction on marine ecosystems and also using fossil fuels. Convenience Every day, every minute. Shopping experiences in super markets, retail stores and fast food outlets lack of awareness of the negative impact of plastic on the environment. Laziness Branding, expected norm Depleting fosil fuels Environmental impacts Bring awareness & education to consumers about how long plastic takes to brake down, environmental impacts etc. Start education programs at school at a very early age, so the change in awareness and mindset grows with new generations. Problem Canvas When to use: Project start phase, Discovery/inceptions, kickoffs, ideations Duration: 1-2hrs for a group of 10 Add more time if the number of people increases. What you need: A3 printouts of canvas & fine tip sharpies
- 23. Archetype diagram Mapping When to use: Project start phase, problem scooping phase, Discovery/ inceptions, kickoffs. Duration: 30-60mins What you need: Sheet of paper or whiteboard. See the big picture
- 24. See the big picture Charge for plastic bags Customers retaliate, loss of business Reduce use of plastic bags Archetype diagram Mapping When to use: Project start phase, problem scooping phase, Discovery/ inceptions, kickoffs. Duration: 30-60mins What you need: Sheet of paper or whiteboard.
- 25. The problems.
- 26. Keep learning.
- 27. WEB RESOURCES www.thesystemsthinker.com www.online.unschools.co SYSTEMS THINKING HEROES Donella Meadows Peter M. Senge Leyla Acaraglu BOOKS Adopt a growth mindset. @sol_pandiella. + www.aphic.com/blog DOWNLOAD PRESENTATION AND WORKSHEETS (PDFS)
- 28. Remember… “You’re not stuck in traffic, you are the traffic” We are all parts of a whole.