Overview

Model Building I: Learning and Applying the Basics leads STELLA and iThink users through the modeling process—from conceptualization to testing to creation—in four, one-hour recorded presentations. Course instructor Chris Soderquist begins with the basic modeling building blocks of the Systems Thinking language—stocks and flows—adding tips on software mechanics along the way to show how simple, powerful models are created.  

Each recorded session includes 30-45 minutes of instruction followed by Q&A. Online access to handouts that summarize session content, sample models and homework exercises will help cement learning.

Online Course Terms and Conditions of Use

Course Syllabus

Session 1: The Modeling Process

Develop a sound modeling process that takes you and your team from model conception to creation (the modeling process is emphasized throughout the course). Learn the language of stocks and flows along with necessary software mechanics.

• How can Systems Thinking help explain the dynamics of a pandemic?

Session 2: Tracking System Attributes

Use models to track key attributes through a system and find out:

• How skill level increases as employees move through the human resource system (training, evaluation, etc.).
• How pollution moves through ecosystems like the Everglades.
• How changes in CAFE regulations will impact the overall fleet fuel economy over the next several decades.

Session 3: Modeling Market Dynamics

Build models of attractiveness dynamics and explore:

• How price impacts your market share relative to the competition.
• How community attractiveness leads to urban sprawl and other land use issues.

Session 4: Modeling Supply and Demand

Build models of supply/demand dynamics to see:

• The interrelationships between total inventory (yours and the competition’s), price and market demand.
• How the globalization of food production and distribution impacts sustainability (economic, social, environmental).

About the Instructor

Chris Soderquist is the president of Pontifex Consulting. Since 1998 he’s worked with executives and middle-level managers to develop strategic solutions to complex issues. His clients include: Alcoa, Boeing, Hewlett-Packard, Mayo Clinic, NASA, Pfizer, Sony Ericsson, United Way, and the World Bank.

Chris’ background in Systems Thinking began at Northwestern University where he first began integrating scientific methods with human decision making processes. He worked with isee systems (then High Performance Systems) for over four years, where he was a lead consultant, trainer, and learning environment developer. While at isee systems he helped develop and deliver Introduction to Dynamic Modeling with STELLA and iThink.

The author of many articles on Systems Thinking, Chris contributed a chapter on the Strategic Forum™ in, The Change Handbook: Group Methods for Shaping the Future (Berrett-Koehler, 1999). Along with Barry Richmond, Chris co-developed the interactive teaching tool Systems Thinking: Taking the Next Step.

• STELLA or iThink version 9.
• Web browser
• Apple Quicktime Video Player
• Adobe Acrobat Reader