Qualitative systems models distinguish the parts of a system from what causes them to change. They provide tangible theories for achieving any kind of change in a complex market/system.
Quantitative models allows you to run simulations to test theories, using mathematical formulas to test the outcomes and impacts when you make changes in that system.
Systems models are the most complex products we build, and the majority are qualitative models that start at $25k. Quantitative models require a substantial increase in time and cost.
We tailor our process and product to the unique context, requirements and objectives of your business. It normally requires an hour meeting (in person or virtual) and takes 3-5 business days to prep the virtual engagements and requirements for the workshop.
The first virtual engagement is one of the most critical components to an effective meeting/workshop and quality final product. This is the initial invitation to the key team members and stakeholders to participate in the process. We explain the objective, describe the modeling process, how they will be asked to contribute, and pose some preliminary questions to help us understand the system and its parts.
People can respond to question on any device. It takes 3-5 minutes to complete, and the end result can add up to hundreds of ideas and hours of collective listening and sharing all before the first meeting takes place. You can read more about our virtual processes here.
Systems models generally require several workshops with various groups / stakeholders in the system to collect the necessary information. The first workshop is a general modeling session that seeks to draw the whole system in broad strokes.
In the second virtual engagement, we seek to engage people who have experience or perspective on the different parts of the system. Because the process is virtual, we are able to engage a broad set of people anywhere in a short amount of time. This can take 2 or more virtual engagements to complete.
The second workshop is focused on bringing the broad and diverse set of ideas together in a coherent model, bringing focus and attention to the areas most pertinent to the objectives of you and your organization. This can take 2 or more workshops to complete.
Systems models require more 'behind the scenes' research and development than our other products. With most of our other products, ideas, questions and answers are uncovered through the virtual engagements and workshops. For systems modeling, while the workshops help create a picture of the system, the dynamics of how the parts affect each other require more time and effort to explore, model and test in order to arrive at a coherent and cohesive model.
The final workshop is used to explore and test the model, apply its insight and logic to your business objectives, and look for areas in the model that require tweaking or corrections before final delivery.
Details of the final delivery will depend on the context, results and whatever you determine is appropriate in terms of the level of details shared with participants. Systems models are generally part of a larger package or project, the 'framework' for understanding a complex issue that provide insight into strategic plans, process design, program design etc.
The full list of deliverables includes:
Understanding how the pieces affect each other is the key to successful growth and change.
Collective Insight will minimize uncertainty, gaps and errors when putting the pieces together.
Sytems thinking articulates the dynamics of a system and how the pieces impact each other.
The inclusive process results in better understanding, alignment and support for decisions and direction.
Visual thinking/products communicate complex issues, big picture and detail clearly and effectively.
We've been applying visual and systems thinking to complex challenges in government and business for over 40 years. We'd be happy to chat about the opportunity or challenge you're dealing with!