SBS Endorsed – Systems Thinking for Leaders and Managers

Program Overview

Recurring problems often return because managers fix symptoms while the underlying structure stays unchanged. This programme introduces leaders to systems thinking as a practical discipline for seeing interconnections, feedback loops and delays. Participants learn the iceberg model, causal loop diagrams, stock-and-flow thinking and common system archetypes such as fixes that fail, shifting the burden and limits to growth, then identify leverage points where small changes produce lasting improvement. Cases include service backlogs, staff turnover cycles and policy side effects in Gulf public and private organisations, showing how systemic insight leads to better policies and decisions.

Learning Outcomes

• ✓Apply the iceberg model to move from events to patterns, structures and mental models in a recurring problem.
• ✓Draw a causal loop diagram that identifies reinforcing and balancing feedback loops.
• ✓Recognise at least four system archetypes in real organisational situations.
• ✓Identify leverage points and evaluate likely unintended consequences of proposed interventions.
• ✓Facilitate a cross-functional dialogue that builds a shared systemic picture of a complex issue.

Target Audience

• Senior and middle managers handling complex cross-functional problems
• Policy, strategy and planning professionals
• Process improvement and excellence specialists
• Programme managers coordinating multiple stakeholders

Detailed Program Modules

Training Methodology

Applied Project & Assessment