Lebanon, NH, June 23, 2006 – isee systems (formerly High Performance Systems) has published Guns at School: A Systems Thinking Perspective, a book that introduces readers to Systems Thinking and software modeling tools through consideration of gun violence in schools. “School violence is tragic and the reasons behind it are complex,” explains Joanne Egner, Managing Director of isee systems. “It’s a perfect candidate for Systems Thinking and for demonstrating how the use of software modeling tools enhances our discussions and shared understanding of real-world, social problems.”

Guns at School was first written by Barry Richmond in 2001. isee systems recently adapted the piece to introduce Systems Thinking to a broad array of people.

“Barry often talked about the value of a Systems Thinking framework as a vehicle for building a better argument about the causes and potential solutions to pressing problems facing society,” explains Steve Peterson, a long-time associate of Richmond . “He was passionate about the use of simple systems diagrams and simulations to help people develop a richer picture of what’s going on out there in the world so that they might then act on that understanding.”

Guns at School provides an overview of Systems Thinking, including concepts and language, then walks the reader through a consideration of school violence using models created with STELLA, isee system’s leading Systems Thinking software. The book provides a simple laboratory for testing a variety of initiatives ranging from gun searches and metal detectors to anti-bullying programs and counseling. A CD accompanies the book so that readers can follow the presented examples and test their own theories about best possible solutions.

Guns at Schools: A Systems Thinking Perspective  is available through isee systems and costs $22. For more information, visit www.iseesystems.com/GaS. 

About isee systems (www.iseesystems.com) — isee (formerly High Performance Systems) is the world leader and innovator in Systems Thinking software. Founded in 1985, isee released STELLA®, the first software application to bring Systems Thinking to the desktop. In addition to STELLA which is primarily used by educators, isee offers iThink® for business simulation. isee is a privately-held company with substantial global reach in business, education, and government markets.

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