Systems thinking considers how all different elements of a system interact and then identifies ways to optimize the overall system.
Why is this important?
Systems thinking is an entirely different way of managing your organization. A typical organization uses many different methods to market a product, buy merchandise, manage customer relationships, and so much more. By learning how to manage these procedures, you will be able to run your company more effectively.
The concept of system thinking is a unique way of approaching methodic or systemic behavior. In essence, it is a different way of seeing and talking about the reality we live in each day. By understanding and thinking in this way, you will be able to create a different set of tools for approaching each problem.
Systems thinking takes a holistic approach to how different parts of a methodology interrelate. In traditional analysis, people only looked at the separate elements in a system. By thinking in systems, you can understand the balancing and reinforcing processes that cause system behavior.
So, now you know what a system mindset is, but what are the advantages of a system mindset? How can you adopt one?
The big advantage to developing a systems mindset is that you can identify where current systems are broken. Knowing what is broken is half the battle! Once you know what is broken, you can look for solutions to optimize the system.
Optimized systems result in higher quality products, higher profitability, and less employee frustration.
Here are the key points to get you started thinking in systems:
- Systems need to be documented to be consistent.
- Systems are going to change, so the documentation needs to be updated.
Now it is time to start documenting your systems. Documentation can take many forms, including written, process maps, screenshot videos, or a variety of other methods. In the process of documentation, you will begin to see where the system is inefficient.
Once you have a system documented, share it with your team, review the process, and look for areas to make improvements.
Continue to review and modify your systems as the business evolves. Team meetings are a natural place to accomplish this and keep your team in the systems mindset. My two favorite questions to ask at team meetings are:
- What systems need to be documented or updated?
- What can we do to improve efficiency or profitability?
Adopting the Systems Mindset for Success
No matter how large or small your organization is, it undoubtedly includes multiple systems that work together to achieve your objectives. When you only address one part of the problem, you will likely never find a long-term solution. By looking at the system’s interconnected dynamics, you can discover a better way of conducting your business.
Systems thinking can help you revolutionize your workplace across every vertical. If you put the systems approach to work in your company, a better and more efficient business could be right around the corner.
