System Thinking

Systems thinking is a holistic approach to understanding how parts of a system interact and influence one another within a broader context. In practice, it often involves using diagrams and mapping.

Two types of diagrams are especially effective:

• Causal loop diagrams illustrate the interactions and feedback loops that exist within a system
• Stock-and-flow diagrams represent how elements accumulate and move, revealing system dynamics over time.

System thinking is a powerful tool that can be used at any time. When designing new features, it helps predict unintended consequences through a better understanding of system dynamics. When trying to improve and refactor a system, it helps identify bottlenecks, dependencies and potential points of failure.