31 Principles is described through 10 narratives with discussion using business and world events for context
What are 31 Principles?
Many who study system thinking start with beliefs that can be unhelpful. This is evidenced through the number of candidates tested by the Open University who even after doing their Master’s, still struggle with the fundamental concepts. 31 Principles is an approach to address that. It is our view that anyone who wishes to understand System Thinking should experience this.
They were created by a group of academics and sponsored by The Meeting Minds Group. A new initiative to further the establishment of System Thinking and to challenge those who try to make claims of their own. It is to illustrate the fundamental concepts of thinking systemically and establish a level of understanding for everyone. Not just for those who “speak the language” but also for those who know nothing about System Thinking. They are presented in a plain language format using current examples from business and the world around us and even your own examples, should you have any.
What is the format?
Due to the current Covid situation all training is conducted through Zoom.
Each session is roughly 120 minutes.
60 minutes for 31 Principles
60 Minutes Viable System Model
31 Principles is described through 10 narratives with discussion using business and world events for context although each candidate is encouraged to discuss their own context as this is designed to be a discussion, not a monologue. The more discussion, the better the learning in our experience.
After 31 Principles the Viable System Model is explained as an example of several Principles. This can also be demonstrated using a current case study if time permits.
What will you learn?
31 Principles is not exclusive. There are other Principles but these 31 are at the heart of System Thinking. If you can bring these into your thinking, you will have a great advantage in how you approach challenges and more tools for thinking. They will also act as guiding Principles should you decide to study System Thinking academically.
During the session you will find yourself challenged to think differently. Each section is designed to bring a new challenge and attendees have reported being very reflective for several days following the session. You will learn that how you have been encouraged to think may not be the best way and I often describe this as a small fork in the road. Should you choose the systemic route, you may never think the same way again. Indeed you may discover a lot of things you took for granted, may not be true.
Another analogy I use is to say I open the door and show you through, it is up to you if you step through.
Adam is an expert in applying system thinking to resolve many complex and difficult business problems for some of the world’s leading companies.