Does your organization make the same mistakes over and over again, without being able to get a grip on the cause? If so, a systems archetype might be at work behind the scenes! The archetypes depict the recurring “stories” that often indicate imbalance in a system.

Working with these tools can help individuals and teams surface their mental models, communicate the “story,” and engage in creative dialogue about the entire system.

Written by top authors in the field, this workbook brings you the latest thinking about the archetypes—and provides plenty of practice using them.

Familiarize yourself with eight classic archetypes, such as Fixes That Fail and Limits to Success, by working step-by-step through vivid examples, illustrations, and exercises. Additional activities, potential responses, a handy “archetypes at a glance” chart, and a glossary of terms complete your learning experience.

Ideal for self-study or group practice, Systems Archetype Basics will give you the confidence and skill to start putting your knowledge to work.

Systems Thinking Basics is a self-study, skill-building resource designed to introduce you to the power of systems thinking tools. With an emphasis on behavior over time graphs and causal loop diagrams, this workbook guides you step by step through:

• Recognizing systems and understanding the importance of systems thinking
• Interpreting and creating behavior over time graphs and causal loop diagrams
• Applying and practicing systems thinking day-to-day

Each of the book’s six main sections contains a wealth of examples from the business world, as well as learning activities that reinforce concepts and provide you with the opportunity and space to practice. An array of appendices offers:

• Extra practice activities
• A summary of key points and suggested responses to the learning activities
• A table showing the “palette” of systems thinking tools available
• A glossary of systems thinking terms
• A list of additional resources
• A summary of the systems archetypes

The many diagrams within the book clarify concepts and visually reinforce key principles. Systems Thinking Basics is ideal for aspiring systems thinkers eager to try their hand at using these powerful tools.