We have been exploring ways of learning about systems dynamics for the past few years. Systems concepts are not always easy to grasp. Managing and observing systems in action can provide valuable insights into these ideas. Some of our first work used the Beer Game to provide the learning opportunity. We found that the Beer Game was a difficult to facilitate and a frustrating experience for the players. It was however, a powerful vehicle for experiencing systems in action.

Our design commitment for the System Thinking Mini-Sim was to provide the same powerful learning opportunity in a shorter time and with less possibility for player and facilitator frustration.

The Mini-Sim is a model of a balancing loop with a delay. In the simulation, participants work in pairs to manage an organizational process. The process can be set to a service or manufacturing context.

At the start of the simulation the system is in equilibrium. The pairs play one or two days to become familiar with the process and then a single change is introduced by the facilitator. The teams then have to make the management decisions needed to bring the system back into balance. Throughout the simulation they can observe the effects of their choices on the systems performance.

During the debrief we look at the system structure behind the simulation. We also look at other examples and explore applications to the workplace.

We have delivered the Systems Thinking Mini-Sim for a wide variety of audiences including; Metropolitan Washington American Society for Quality, The Johns Hopkins University, The North American Simulation and Gaming Association National Conference, and the Contingency Planning and Management National Conference.