How to model a complex world ... is there any other kind of world?
So often we think in blinkered terms, linear cause and effect: "If this happens, then this, then this."
This thinking and discussing down one line of causation leaves us vulnerable to unexpected consequences when we act on the real world.
There has develop a family of simple diagramming techniques, variously called Outcome Relationship Models, Causal Maps, Soft Systems Diagrams, that help people explore something nearing the richness of the world we seek to change.
People in transformation change have found these models helpful in identifying and avoiding unintended consequences.
I've created this lens to pull together some of the resources and references I've found useful in this area.
My Blog: Lessons of a Learning Leader
Fetching RSS feed... please stand byGreat Stuff on Amazon
Some useful links on Outcome Relationship Modelling, Causal Maps and Systems Thinking
- Creative Think: Air Travel's Unintended Consequences
- An interesting post from Roger von Oech's Creative Think Blog illustrating an unintended consequence of American Airlines imposing a fee for more than one bag.
- Visual Thinking
- A useful article attempting a definition of visual thinking, within which the Outcome Relatonship model falls.
- Visual Thinking
- A useful article attempting a definition of visual thinking, within which the Outcome Relationship model falls.
- Visual Thinking
- A useful article attempting a definition of visual thinking, within which the Outcome Relationship model falls.
New Guestbook
Like this lens? Want to share your feedback, or just give a thumbs up? Be the first to submit a blurb!
