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System Dynamics
Luis Fernando Mello Barreto
Luis Fernando Mello Barreto
This course equips learners with the skills to analyze dynamic relationships within systems, create causal loop diagrams, and simulate the behavior of interconnected variables. Participants gain insights into system behavior, enabling them to make informed decisions and design effective interventions in diverse contexts.
Register for this course and see more details by visiting:
OpenCourser.com/course/jkngo8/system
What's inside
Syllabus
System Thinking
By the end of week 1, you will be able to:
• Comprehend the foundational concepts of System Dynamics and systems thinking and recognize their importance in understanding and addressing complex problems in various disciplines.
• Develop the ability to distinguish between analytical thinking and systems thinking approaches and appreciate the value of problem orientation and clear problem articulation for effective problem-solving.
• Acquire a deeper understanding of the perspectives and contributions of key figures in the field, such as Jay W. Forrester and Russ Ackoff, and explore the practical applications of systems thinking in management and decision-making.
Read more
Syllabus
System Thinking
By the end of week 1, you will be able to:
• Comprehend the foundational concepts of System Dynamics and systems thinking and recognize their importance in understanding and addressing complex problems in various disciplines.
• Develop the ability to distinguish between analytical thinking and systems thinking approaches and appreciate the value of problem orientation and clear problem articulation for effective problem-solving.
• Acquire a deeper understanding of the perspectives and contributions of key figures in the field, such as Jay W. Forrester and Russ Ackoff, and explore the practical applications of systems thinking in management and decision-making.
Read more
Causal Loops
By the end of week 2, you will be able to:
• Develop a deep understanding of systems thinking, with a focus on feedback processes, causal loop diagrams, and the impact of delays on system behavior.
• Understand how to create and interpret causal loop diagrams as a tool for analyzing relationships and feedback processes within complex systems.
• Learn to identify and apply system archetypes and modes of dynamic behavior to real-world scenarios, enhancing decision-making and problem-solving abilities in various contexts.
Stocks and Flows
By the end of week 3, you will be able to:
• Understand the fundamental concepts of stocks, flows, and auxiliary variables in System Dynamics, and learn how to differentiate between causal loop diagrams and stock-flow diagrams.
• Gain hands-on experience with the Vensim software, including the installation process, creating and simulating System Dynamics models, and analyzing the behavior of models through simulations.
• Apply the acquired System Dynamics modeling skills to real-world examples, such as the Retirement Fund model, to analyze the impact of different variables and explore the behavior of complex systems over time.
Bass Model
Examines the Bass Model for forecasting product adoption across markets. Students will explore diffusion Models, including advanced aspects like product obsolescence and repurchases. Vensim simulations will be employed to enhance critical thinking and problem-solving skills while analyzing real-world scenarios.
Dynamics of Growth
Focuses on the Dynamics of Growth, exploring various aspects such as product awareness, production costs, and product differentiation. Learners will analyze these dynamics through strategic modeling and systems thinking, applying their knowledge to real-world business scenarios. The module emphasizes understanding the role of feedback loops in growth dynamics and developing informed corporate strategies for long-term success.
Good to know
Good to know
Know what's good ,
what to watch for , and
possible dealbreakers
Develops systems thinking skills, which are invaluable for analyzing complex problems across disciplines
Leverages the Vensim software, providing hands-on experience in dynamic modeling and simulation
Explores various system archetypes and modes of dynamic behavior, enhancing problem-solving abilities
Examines the Bass Model for forecasting product adoption, catering to learners interested in marketing and product management
Focuses on the Dynamics of Growth, addressing strategic modeling and systems thinking for business professionals
Requires a certain level of mathematical maturity for comprehending the concepts and models presented
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Save System Dynamics to your list so you can find it easily later:
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Activities
Be better prepared
before
your course. Deepen your understanding
during
and
after
it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered
in System Dynamics with these
activities:
Review Causal Loop Diagrams
Show steps
Review the concept of causal loop diagrams used in System Dynamics, it will help you to implement the related topics better.
Browse courses on
Causal Loop Diagrams
Show steps
-
Check the syllabus and your notes for the relevant sections.
-
Study any available slides or handouts from previous classes.
-
Go through any practice problems or examples.
Compile a Resource List for System Dynamics
Show steps
Gather and organize useful resources such as articles, books, and online simulations to support your learning and understanding of System Dynamics.
Browse courses on
System Dynamics
Show steps
-
Search for relevant materials on System Dynamics concepts and applications.
-
Create a document or spreadsheet to organize the resources.
-
Include a brief description or annotation for each resource.
Review 'Thinking in Systems'
Show steps
Reinforce your understanding of System Dynamics concepts by reading and reflecting on a foundational text in the field.
View
Thinking in Systems: International Bestseller
on Amazon
Show steps
-
Obtain and read the book.
-
Make notes and highlight key concepts.
-
Engage in discussions with others about the book.
Ten other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all 13 activities
Discuss System Dynamics Concepts
Show steps
Through discussion with peers, you will deepen your understanding of System Dynamics concepts by exchanging ideas and insights.
Browse courses on
System Dynamics
Show steps
-
Find a study partner or group.
-
Discuss the concepts that you are learning in class.
-
Work together to solve problems.
Practice Solving Bass Model Questions
Show steps
Solve practice problems and simulations related to the Bass Model to enhance your understanding of product adoption and diffusion processes.
Show steps
-
Review the Bass Model concepts and assumptions.
-
Attempt practice questions covering different scenarios of product adoption.
-
Use Vensim software to simulate and analyze Bass Model scenarios.
Practice Creating Stock-Flow Diagrams
Show steps
By practicing creating stock-flow diagrams, you will understand the relationships between variables in a system better.
Browse courses on
System Dynamics
Show steps
-
Find some practice problems or examples of stock-flow diagrams.
-
Try to create your own stock-flow diagrams for these problems.
-
Compare your diagrams to the provided solutions.
Analyze System Dynamics Models
Show steps
Engage in hands-on practice of analyzing and interpreting System Dynamics models to gain proficiency in identifying patterns and understanding model behavior.
Browse courses on
System Dynamics
Show steps
-
Study the fundamental principles of System Dynamics modeling.
-
Examine provided System Dynamics models.
-
Identify and analyze feedback loops, stocks, flows, and other components.
Attend a System Dynamics Simulation Workshop
Show steps
Participate in a workshop to enhance your skills in using System Dynamics software for simulation and modeling.
Browse courses on
System Dynamics
Show steps
-
Identify and register for an appropriate workshop.
-
Attend the workshop.
-
Participate actively in the simulations and exercises.
Participate as a Peer Tutor
Show steps
Share your knowledge and enhance your understanding by assisting other students in grasping System Dynamics concepts and techniques.
Browse courses on
System Dynamics
Show steps
-
Offer your services as a peer tutor.
-
Prepare and organize your tutoring sessions.
-
Provide guidance and support to students.
Learn about Bass Model
Show steps
By understanding the Bass Model, you will be able to forecast product adoption across markets, which is a key concept in System Dynamics.
Show steps
-
Find some online tutorials or articles about the Bass Model.
-
Follow the steps in the tutorials to learn how to use the model.
-
Try to apply the model to a real-world scenario.
Design a System Dynamics Model
Show steps
Apply your acquired knowledge by designing and simulating a System Dynamics model to analyze a real-world problem or scenario.
Browse courses on
System Dynamics
Show steps
-
Identify a suitable problem or scenario for System Dynamics modeling.
-
Develop a causal loop diagram representing the system dynamics.
-
Translate the causal loop diagram into a stock-flow model using Vensim software.
-
Simulate and analyze the model, experimenting with different inputs and parameters.
Build a System Dynamics Model
Show steps
Building a System Dynamics model will help you to understand the behavior of complex systems and how to use Vensim software.
Browse courses on
System Dynamics
Show steps
-
Choose a real-world problem that you want to model.
-
Develop a conceptual model of the system.
-
Create a Vensim model of the system.
-
Simulate the model and analyze the results.
Develop a Proposal for a System Dynamics Intervention
Show steps
Apply your knowledge to propose a System Dynamics intervention aimed at addressing a real-world problem or improving a process.
Browse courses on
System Dynamics
Show steps
-
Identify a problem or challenge that can benefit from a System Dynamics approach.
-
Develop a causal loop diagram or stock-flow model to analyze the system.
-
Propose specific interventions based on your analysis.
-
Write a proposal outlining your intervention and its potential impact.
Review Causal Loop Diagrams
Show steps
Review the concept of causal loop diagrams used in System Dynamics, it will help you to implement the related topics better.
Browse courses on
Causal Loop Diagrams
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Check the syllabus and your notes for the relevant sections.
- Study any available slides or handouts from previous classes.
- Go through any practice problems or examples.
Compile a Resource List for System Dynamics
Show steps
Gather and organize useful resources such as articles, books, and online simulations to support your learning and understanding of System Dynamics.
Browse courses on
System Dynamics
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Search for relevant materials on System Dynamics concepts and applications.
- Create a document or spreadsheet to organize the resources.
- Include a brief description or annotation for each resource.
Review 'Thinking in Systems'
Show steps
Reinforce your understanding of System Dynamics concepts by reading and reflecting on a foundational text in the field.
View
Thinking in Systems: International Bestseller
on Amazon
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Obtain and read the book.
- Make notes and highlight key concepts.
- Engage in discussions with others about the book.
Ten other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all 13 activities
Discuss System Dynamics Concepts
Show steps
Through discussion with peers, you will deepen your understanding of System Dynamics concepts by exchanging ideas and insights.
Browse courses on
System Dynamics
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Find a study partner or group.
- Discuss the concepts that you are learning in class.
- Work together to solve problems.
Practice Solving Bass Model Questions
Show steps
Solve practice problems and simulations related to the Bass Model to enhance your understanding of product adoption and diffusion processes.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Review the Bass Model concepts and assumptions.
- Attempt practice questions covering different scenarios of product adoption.
- Use Vensim software to simulate and analyze Bass Model scenarios.
Practice Creating Stock-Flow Diagrams
Show steps
By practicing creating stock-flow diagrams, you will understand the relationships between variables in a system better.
Browse courses on
System Dynamics
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Find some practice problems or examples of stock-flow diagrams.
- Try to create your own stock-flow diagrams for these problems.
- Compare your diagrams to the provided solutions.
Analyze System Dynamics Models
Show steps
Engage in hands-on practice of analyzing and interpreting System Dynamics models to gain proficiency in identifying patterns and understanding model behavior.
Browse courses on
System Dynamics
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Study the fundamental principles of System Dynamics modeling.
- Examine provided System Dynamics models.
- Identify and analyze feedback loops, stocks, flows, and other components.
Attend a System Dynamics Simulation Workshop
Show steps
Participate in a workshop to enhance your skills in using System Dynamics software for simulation and modeling.
Browse courses on
System Dynamics
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Identify and register for an appropriate workshop.
- Attend the workshop.
- Participate actively in the simulations and exercises.
Participate as a Peer Tutor
Show steps
Share your knowledge and enhance your understanding by assisting other students in grasping System Dynamics concepts and techniques.
Browse courses on
System Dynamics
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Offer your services as a peer tutor.
- Prepare and organize your tutoring sessions.
- Provide guidance and support to students.
Learn about Bass Model
Show steps
By understanding the Bass Model, you will be able to forecast product adoption across markets, which is a key concept in System Dynamics.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Find some online tutorials or articles about the Bass Model.
- Follow the steps in the tutorials to learn how to use the model.
- Try to apply the model to a real-world scenario.
Design a System Dynamics Model
Show steps
Apply your acquired knowledge by designing and simulating a System Dynamics model to analyze a real-world problem or scenario.
Browse courses on
System Dynamics
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Identify a suitable problem or scenario for System Dynamics modeling.
- Develop a causal loop diagram representing the system dynamics.
- Translate the causal loop diagram into a stock-flow model using Vensim software.
- Simulate and analyze the model, experimenting with different inputs and parameters.
Build a System Dynamics Model
Show steps
Building a System Dynamics model will help you to understand the behavior of complex systems and how to use Vensim software.
Browse courses on
System Dynamics
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Choose a real-world problem that you want to model.
- Develop a conceptual model of the system.
- Create a Vensim model of the system.
- Simulate the model and analyze the results.
Develop a Proposal for a System Dynamics Intervention
Show steps
Apply your knowledge to propose a System Dynamics intervention aimed at addressing a real-world problem or improving a process.
Browse courses on
System Dynamics
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Identify a problem or challenge that can benefit from a System Dynamics approach.
- Develop a causal loop diagram or stock-flow model to analyze the system.
- Propose specific interventions based on your analysis.
- Write a proposal outlining your intervention and its potential impact.
Career center
Learners who complete System Dynamics will develop knowledge and skills
that may be useful to these careers:
Business Analyst
Business Analyst
Business Analysts are responsible for identifying and documenting the needs of a business. They work with stakeholders to define problems and develop solutions. System Dynamics may be of use in this role as it focuses on analyzing dynamic relationships within systems, which can help Business Analysts understand the complex interactions of a business and its environment.
Systems Analyst
Systems Analyst
Systems Analysts bridge the gap between business users and IT professionals, helping to determine how technology can be used to solve business problems and improve efficiency. Those working in this role often have a strong understanding of system dynamics and are able to apply it to design, implement, and maintain complex systems.
Operations Research Analyst
Operations Research Analyst
Operations Research Analysts use mathematical and analytical techniques to improve the efficiency of systems. They work in a variety of industries, including manufacturing, transportation, and healthcare. The System Dynamics course can help Operations Research Analysts develop the skills they need to model and analyze complex systems.
Management Consultant
Management Consultant
Management Consultants work with businesses to improve their performance through the use of various techniques including problem-solving, data analysis, and strategic planning. They may also specialize in a particular area such as operations, finance, or marketing. The System Dynamics course can help Management Consultants develop the skills they need to analyze complex business problems and develop effective solutions.
Financial Analyst
Financial Analyst
Financial Analysts use financial data to make investment recommendations and develop financial plans. They work in a variety of industries, including banking, insurance, and investment management. System Dynamics may be of use in this role as they learn to analyze dynamic relationships within systems, which can help them understand the complex interactions of the financial markets.
Public Policy Analyst
Public Policy Analyst
Public Policy Analysts research and analyze public policy issues. They use a variety of methods to collect and analyze data, including surveys, interviews, and focus groups. The System Dynamics course can help Public Policy Analysts develop the skills they need to collect and analyze data, and to build and analyze models that describe public policy.
Data Scientist
Data Scientist
The System Dynamics course helps Data Scientists understand how systems behave over time and interact with each other. This understanding is essential for building accurate and effective models. The course also helps Data Scientists develop the skills they need to collect, clean, and analyze data.
Quantitative Analyst
Quantitative Analyst
Quantitative Analysts are highly skilled professionals that use mathematical and statistical models to analyze complex data. Their responsibilities include developing models that forecast various outcomes, as well as using programming languages to write code that helps automate and execute these models. System Dynamics may be useful to a Quantitative Analyst as system dynamics can help them build models for complex systems that can be used for forecasting and planning.
Market Researcher
Market Researcher
Market Researchers study consumer behavior and market trends. They use a variety of methods to collect and analyze data, including surveys, interviews, and focus groups. The System Dynamics course can help Market Researchers develop the skills they need to collect and analyze data, and to build and analyze models that describe consumer behavior.
Transportation Planner
Transportation Planner
Transportation Planners develop and evaluate transportation plans. They use a variety of methods to collect and analyze data, including surveys, interviews, and traffic counts. The System Dynamics course can help Transportation Planners develop the skills they need to collect and analyze data, and to build and analyze models that describe transportation systems.
Software Engineer
Software Engineer
Software Engineers are responsible for designing, developing, and maintaining software applications. They work in a variety of industries, including finance, healthcare, and manufacturing. The System Dynamics course may be useful in this role as it can help Software Engineers understand how complex systems behave over time, which can be helpful when designing and developing software applications.
Environmental Scientist
Environmental Scientist
Environmental Scientists study the environment and its interactions with human activities. They use a variety of methods to collect and analyze data, including field studies, laboratory experiments, and computer modeling. The System Dynamics course can help Environmental Scientists develop the skills they need to collect and analyze data, and to build and analyze models that describe environmental systems.
Actuary
Actuary
Actuaries use mathematical and statistical techniques to assess risk and uncertainty. They work in a variety of industries, including insurance, pensions, and healthcare. The System Dynamics course can help Actuaries develop the skills they need to build and analyze models that assess risk and uncertainty.
Epidemiologist
Epidemiologist
Epidemiologists study the distribution and determinants of disease. They use a variety of methods to collect and analyze data, including surveys, interviews, and medical records. The System Dynamics course can help Epidemiologists develop the skills they need to collect and analyze data, and to build and analyze models that describe the spread of disease.
Economist
Economist
Economists study the production, distribution, and consumption of goods and services. They use a variety of tools to analyze economic data, including mathematical models and statistical techniques. The System Dynamics course can help Economists develop the skills they need to build and analyze economic models.
For more career information including salaries, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/jkngo8/system
Reading list
We've selected ten books
that we think will supplement your
learning. Use these to
develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a
deeper understanding of the topics covered in
System Dynamics.
Save
This classic work provides a foundational understanding of systems thinking, which core concept in System Dynamics. It explores the principles, tools, and applications of systems thinking, helping readers to develop a holistic perspective on complex problems.
This advanced textbook provides a comprehensive overview of decision-making in dynamic environments. It covers a wide range of topics, including System Dynamics, decision analysis, and game theory. While it is more challenging than the course materials, it offers a valuable resource for students interested in developing a deeper understanding of decision-making under uncertainty.
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of systems thinking and its applications in various fields. It offers a structured approach to understanding and addressing complex problems, making it a valuable resource for students interested in developing a systems perspective.
This textbook provides a rigorous treatment of dynamic systems and control theory. It covers the fundamental concepts of system dynamics, modeling techniques, and control strategies. While it is more advanced than the course materials, it offers a valuable reference for students interested in pursuing further studies in System Dynamics.
Save
This textbook provides a solid foundation in feedback systems, which are a central topic in System Dynamics. It covers the principles of feedback control, stability analysis, and design techniques. It valuable resource for students looking to gain a deeper understanding of the mathematical and engineering aspects of System Dynamics.
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of modeling techniques, including System Dynamics. It covers the process of model development, validation, and analysis, helping students to develop the skills needed to create and use System Dynamics models effectively.
Examines the application of System Dynamics to project management. It provides practical guidance on how to use System Dynamics models to plan, execute, and control projects effectively. While it is specifically focused on project management, it offers valuable insights for students interested in using System Dynamics in other contexts.
This practical guide provides a step-by-step approach to using systems thinking to address social challenges. It includes case studies and exercises that help students apply systems thinking principles to real-world problems.
Save
This influential book explores the concept of the learning organization and its importance for success in the face of complexity. It provides insights into how organizations can use System Dynamics and other tools to improve their ability to adapt and innovate.
Save
This comprehensive history of strategy provides a broader context for understanding the role of System Dynamics in strategic decision-making. It traces the evolution of strategic thinking from ancient times to the present day, offering valuable insights for students interested in applying System Dynamics to business and management.
For more information about how these books relate to this course, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/jkngo8/system
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Effort
5 weeks
Level
Advanced
Via
Coursera
Institution
Fundação Instituto de Administração
Instructor
Luis Fernando Mello Barreto
Language
English
This course belongs to a
collection
called
Future Studies. It's comprised of two courses:
- Corporate Foresight
- System Dynamics (viewing)
Good to know
Develops systems thinking skills, which are invaluable for analyzing complex problems across disciplines
Leverages the Vensim software, providing hands-on experience in dynamic modeling and simulation
Explores various system archetypes and modes of dynamic behavior, enhancing problem-solving abilities
Examines the Bass Model for forecasting product adoption, catering to learners interested in marketing and product management
Focuses on the Dynamics of Growth, addressing strategic modeling and systems thinking for business professionals
Requires a certain level of mathematical maturity for comprehending the concepts and models presented
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