An effective framework for applying Systems Thinking is key to developing models that achieve your purpose, provide insight and have a positive impact on your organization.

This four-session recorded web seminar series introduces STELLA and iThink users to the model building process. Using this proven framework, you'll learn how to build simple (yet powerful!) models that address problems relevant to business, healthcare, education and the environment.

Each session focuses on specific topics as follows:

Session 1: Overview of the Modeling Process

Session 2: Developing the Core Stock and Flow Structure

Session 3: Using Generic Templates

Session 4: Adding Feedback and Understanding Dynamics

Overview

Led by Chris Soderquist of Pontifex Consulting, each recorded session includes a 50-55 minute presentation followed by questions and answers. Online access to session recordings, sample iThink/STELLA models, handouts and homework assignments will cement your learning.

Course Syllabus

Session 1: Overview of the Modeling Process

An effective modeling process will take you and your team from model conception to creation in the shortest time possible. This session sets the stage for the course and includes:

• Why modeling? – Setting the context
• Common traps and issues that “stall out” modeling projects
• A demonstration of the process from start to finish
• The importance of "framing" the effort

Session 2: Developing the Core Stock and Flow Structure

A core stock/flow structure is the heart of a system dynamics model, the “essence” of what’s important. Starting with the right stock/flow structure keeps the model building process securely on track. This session provides you with the appropriate skills to select those initial stocks carefully and confidently.

Session 3: Using Generic Templates

The next step in the model building process is determining how a model’s flows should be generated. By appropriately applying “generic templates” (common flow structures), you’ll be able to generate the right flows and avoid creating unwieldy, confusing structures (often referred to as “dead buffalos”) that get in the way of useful insights.

Session 4: Adding Feedback and Understanding Dynamics

Feedback loops are key to linking the structure of a model with its behavior. Rather than starting the model building process by creating causal loop diagrams (CLDs) that are often difficult to translate into model structure, you’ll add them after stocks and flows have been defined.

Learn how the modeling process supports feedback structures. Use the necessary tools to increase the effectiveness of your models by adding essential feedback loops and understand the resulting dynamics.

About the Instructor

Chris Soderquist is the president of Pontifex Consulting and a long-time partner of isee systems.  Chris has over sixteen years experience helping organizations apply the principles of System Thinking to achieve their strategic goals. During that time he has provided consulting and training to organizations in the public and private sector, including teaching systems thinking (for health policy) to legislators in Georgia, New Hampshire and Kansas. Clients include: Boeing, Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Dow Chemical, Hewlett-Packard, Nissan, UNDP, World Bank, and the World Economic Forum.

Course Requirements

• STELLA or iThink version 9.1.4
• Web browser
• Apple Quicktime Video Player
• Adobe Acrobat Reader