A black box is a system where only the inputs (what goes in) and outputs (what comes out) are observed, focusing on its behaviour without examining how it works inside. It simplifies complex systems by emphasizing what they do, not how they do it.
Gain thinking skills to navigate real-world complexities
Training
Training Programs
Discover our Systems Thinking Training: Enhance skills with certification, micro-credentials, leadership programs, and learn why our approach stands out.
Certification
Overview
Pathway to expertise: Unveiling the system thinking certification journey.
MICRO CREDENTIALS
Modular Learning
Upskill and earn systems thinking micro-credentials incrementally to advance your career.
Training Calendar
Calendar
Ready to level up your experience and unlock new possibilities? Explore our public training calendar.
Business Solutions
Transform your business using systems thinking and let us guide you on this exciting journey.
Training Partner
Explore our training partner program for in-house rollout: develop, upskill, and empower your team through systems thinking.
Systems Leadership
Elevate your teams’s leadership skills – Discover our Systems Leadership training program.
Request a Private Class
Invest in your team’s growth and enhance problem-solving abilities that drive innovation.
Blog
Unleash the power systems thinking with our captivating blogs.
News & Press
Read the latest news and updates about Systems Thinking Alliance.
Glossary
Learn clear and concise explanations of essential system thinking terminologies.
Newsletter Archive
Access past editions of our insightful Systems Thinking newsletters here.
Brand and Guidelines
Discover how we enrich our brand through the implementation of inspiring design guidelines.
Digital Badge
Make a powerful impression and showcase your accomplishment on your favourite social media platforms.
About Alliance
Our mission is to help individuals and organizations make transformative changes by embracing systems thinking.
Contact Us
Need assistance or have a query? Reach out to us, we’re here to help!
A black box is a system where only the inputs (what goes in) and outputs (what comes out) are observed, focusing on its behaviour without examining how it works inside. It simplifies complex systems by emphasizing what they do, not how they do it.
Autopoiesis refers to the self-making process through which living systems create and recreate themselves, maintaining their own identity as distinct organisms or organizations. Coined by Maturana and Varela, the term combines “auto” meaning “self” and “poiesis” meaning “making,” emphasizing the autonomy and self-organizing nature of living systems. It highlights the unique property of living systems to continuously produce and sustain themselves, contributing to their ongoing existence and self-maintenance.
Behaviour refers to the actions or responses of a system or its parts over time, often influenced by internal and external factors. It is how elements within a system interact with each other and their environment, leading to observable patterns and outcomes. Understanding behaviour helps us understand how a system reacts and manages different situations.
A boundary separates a system from its environment. The borders of the system, determined by the observer(s), which define where control action can be taken: a particular area of responsibility to achieve system purposes.
Boundaries are critical in establishing the identity of the system. The decision on where to draw a system’s boundary largely depends on the purpose of the discussion or analysis at hand.
Bounded rationality refers to the limitations people face when making decisions. These limitations arise from the situation, their cognitive abilities, and the information available to them. As a result, people often rely on shortcuts and quick judgments instead of thoroughly analyzing all available options. Rather than seeking the perfect choice, they frequently settle for an option that meets their basic needs. The concept of bounded rationality acknowledges that individuals cannot always make perfectly rational decisions due to their cognitive constraints and the abundance of information in many situations.
Complexity refers to the condition of systems, objects, phenomena, or concepts that are challenging to understand, explain, or manage due to their intricate and interconnected nature. It involves multiple elements or factors that interact in unpredictable ways, often requiring significant information, time, or coordinated efforts to address.
A “Complex Adaptive System” is a collection of diverse, interconnected entities that adapt and interact with each other, leading to emergent behaviours and patterns. These systems are characterized by their ability to evolve and self-organize in response to changes in their environment.
About
🍪 Our website uses cookies
Our website use cookies. By continuing, we assume your permission to deploy cookies as detailed in our Privacy Policy.