The beginner's guide to systems thinking

Public servants worldwide are regularly asked to manoeuvre complexity and uncertainty while finding solutions to pressing societal problems. It’s impossible to make a policy decision — or deliver an effective service — without thinking across many departments, processes, regions, stakeholders, frameworks … the list goes on and on and on.

Systems thinking is an approach any public servant can use to tackle all this complexity. It can help you understand how the different elements of a system interact and influence each other. But it’s also a tool you can apply when feeling overwhelmed by any project you’re struggling to wrap your head around.

💬 **Have you used systems thinking in your work before? Let us know by leaving a comment below! **

Earlier this month, Apolitical hosted an online event on applying systems thinking in government. It explored the basics of systems thinking and its role in public service. We took the insights from the event and created a quick guide containing all the nuggets of wisdom shared by Alison Guthrie Wrenn and Julie Greene. They shared how systems thinking isn’t just a fad; it can help you be laser-focused on outcomes in a way that drives impact. Read on for practical tips on how to get buy-in for systems thinking and which methodologies work in government.

If you prefer to learn through a short and snappy video, check out the highlight reel from the event at the end of the article.

How would you explain systems thinking to a five-year-old?

Let’s use the analogy of a jumper or sweater to explain systems thinking. Pulling a loose thread in a jumper represents making changes within a system. You're not quite sure what's going to happen because you can't see where that thread goes or the interconnections. Sometimes, pulling the thread results in nothing happening. At other times, it creates unintended consequences, like holes or unravelling. This illustrates the importance of understanding how parts of a system are interconnected.

Can you define systems thinking in government and why it's important?

In the context of government, systems thinking involves examining the interactions between different parts of the system to improve outcomes. Once you understand these interactions, you can modify them to enhance programme effectiveness. For example, tackling a very complex societal problem like the climate crisis requires multiple departments working on different projects all at the same time, approaching it from different angles. What you can do is zoom out and see where various collaborations could be improved to strengthen the system as a whole, ensuring sustainable progress and efficient use of public funding.

What are some common challenges faced when implementing systems thinking in government, and how do you overcome them?

Implementing systems thinking often faces resistance due to entrenched cultural norms and expectations, as well as a lack of understanding of its benefits. Overcoming this challenge requires demonstrating shared value and building trust among stakeholders, which can be achieved through active listening, understanding concerns and showcasing precedents and success stories from within the organisation to alleviate scepticism and encourage the adoption of new approaches. Additionally, gently introducing the concept and educating stakeholders on its value is essential, emphasising why systems thinking matters and how it can lead to more effective problem-solving and collaboration. Providing opportunities for learning and application can further foster a culture of systems thinking within organisations. One challenge in this process is overcoming siloed thinking and encouraging interdisciplinary collaboration, which is crucial to understanding the interconnectedness of various elements within a system and avoiding unintended consequences or “zombie problems” that resurface due to incomplete fixes.

Moreover, ensuring value for money involves pursuing sustainable improvements rather than quick fixes that fail to address systemic issues. Finding allies who share the vision and are willing to collaborate horizontally within the government system is crucial for driving change and creating a conducive environment for collaboration and innovation, which is essential for successfully implementing systems thinking in government.

Can you share some methodologies for applying systems thinking in policy decisions or program outcomes?

Several methodologies can be used to apply systems thinking, including rich picturing, soft systems methodology and viable system modelling. Rich picturing helps in problem articulation and boundary setting, while soft systems methodology aids in understanding and designing interventions within complex systems. Viable system modelling is particularly useful for designing organisations that are adaptable and sustainable amidst complexity and change.

What are the most important questions to ask when initiating a project to ensure systems thinking is integrated from the beginning?

Key questions include clarifying the problem boundary, understanding the ecosystem within which the problem exists and assessing one's position relative to the boundary. Setting clear boundaries around the problem helps identify relevant actors and factors influencing the system. Additionally, fostering collaboration and building circles of trust are vital for gathering diverse perspectives and effectively addressing complex issues.

Do you have any recommended resources for learning more about systems thinking?

A recommended resource for beginners is The Grammar of Systems by Patrick Hoverstadt, which provides a digestible overview of systems thinking principles. Once you understand some of those, adopting system thinking as a mindset and applying the methodologies becomes much easier. Additionally, exploring literature on systems thinking methodologies such as rich picturing, soft systems methodology and viable system modelling can deepen understanding and application. Continuous learning and exploring diverse perspectives are key to embracing and applying systems thinking effectively.

What is your top tip for public servants to start applying systems thinking in their day-to-day work?

Incorporating systems thinking involves encouraging a mindset shift and applying practical methodologies. Start by understanding the problem thoroughly and building circles of trust to gather diverse perspectives. Cultivate a mindset of curiosity, asking probing questions and considering alternate levers and perspectives within the system. This mindset shift encourages a broader perspective and promotes collaboration. By embracing genuine curiosity and thinking horizontally, public servants can effectively apply systems thinking to tackle complex challenges and drive meaningful change within their organisations.

__Do you have any other practical tips to share on applying systems thinking in government? Join the Systems Thinking Community of Practice to continue learning with your peers. __

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