Case studies

Image of abstract network made up of blocks Tackling obesities: Future choices used system mapping help understand the complex systemic structure of obesity and to develop a tool to help policy makers generate, define and test possible policy options to respond to obesity.

The Intelligent infrastructure systems project also used system mapping, but as part of the scenario description process. In this project, the system maps were used to look beyond the detail of each scenario and explore why particular trends and events within the scenario might happen.

‘Making mental connections is our most crucial learning tool, the essence of human intelligence; to forge links; to go beyond the given; to see patterns, relationships, context.’

Marilyn Ferguson

Still interested?

Wikipedia offers a good description of systems thinking with good references.

Mental model musings is a web site that gives a good introduction to systems thinking in a low key fashion.