Systems are the operating system behind every organization. They possess their own behavior and rules. Intentionally designing systems to reinforce priorities and align work is vital to having a well run company.
While culture may establish the norms, and organizational design the structure, systems design determines behavior that is reinforced or contrary to the stated goals.
System dynamics considers the interrelatedness of multiple parts and priorities within an organization ensuring alingment between strategy, structure, and cultural order, provides employees the clarity and tools in their role to attain desired results.
Rooted in systems thinking, which examines how all parts of the organization influence one another, system dynamics helps leaders identify the connections and levers required to make effective decisions or change the system. When systems are intentionally designed, organizations save time, energy, and money, as well as emotional labor. Navigating the complexity, interrelatedness, and dependencies is no small task. We partner with leaders to map out their systems, illuminate the behavior they have architected, and determine a future state for optimal growth.
Making decisions regarding systems means leaders have to anticipate and understand the downstream impact of their decision. This is not always visible. We help leaders identify their problem, the factors contributing to it, the interdependencies and complexity surrounding it, and help them avoid unintended consequences. Making decisions that cause unintended consequences are more harmful at times than not making a decision at all.
Examine this real life issue in the video to the right, “The Cats of Borneo” that the country of Borneo had, which illustrates how off-the-shelf solutions often fail to anticipate and mitigate disasterous consequences.
We work with leaders to identify the roots of the problem, create scenarios for future action, and narrow to the best decision for optimal outcomes.
