MN4107 Systems Thinking and Modeling for a Complex World

This course introduces you to System Dynamics modeling for the analysis of organizational policy and strategy. You will learn to visualize an organization in terms of the structures and policies that create dynamics and regulate performance. The goal is to use the analysis and modeling techniques of System Dynamics to improve understanding of how complex organizational structures drive organizational performance, and then to use that understanding to design high leverage interventions to achieve organizational goals. We use role playing games and computer-based simulations called "microworlds," where space and time can be compressed, slowed, and stopped so we can experience the long-term side effects of decisions, systematically explore new strategies, and develop our understanding of complex systems (analogous to the "flight simulators" that pilots use to learn about the dynamics of flying an aircraft). The course presents system dynamics with a minimum of mathematical formalism. The goal is to develop the students' intuition and conceptual understanding, without sacrificing the rigor of the scientific method (No prior computer modeling experience is needed.). Prerequisites: None.

Lecture Hours

4

Lab Hours

0