Draws feedback, reinforcement, and balance so patterns, levers, and side effects become understandable.
Core question: Which hypothesized feedbacks could produce the observed behavior over time?
Mapping toolMethod form: Mapping tool. Describes how this method is used in practice.MediumComplexity: medium. Estimates preparation, facilitation effort, and method confidence needed.WorkshopFormat: workshop. Shows whether the method works in a workshop, asynchronously, or both.
1-3 h
2-8
Details
Systems ThinkingCategory: Systems Thinking. Describes the method's domain of use.
Models stocks, inflows and outflows, and delays to understand dynamics, bottlenecks, and capacity.
Core question: How do inflows and outflows change stocks over time?
Mapping toolMethod form: Mapping tool. Describes how this method is used in practice.HighComplexity: high. Estimates preparation, facilitation effort, and method confidence needed.Workshop + asyncFormat: workshop or async. Shows whether the method works in a workshop, asynchronously, or both.
2-6 h
1-6
Details
ArchitectureCategory: Architecture. Describes the method's domain of use.
Developers try a preliminary technical design through typical tasks, showing what makes it easy or difficult to use.
Core question: Can developers accomplish their important tasks using this preliminary design?
Analysis methodMethod form: Analysis method. Describes how this method is used in practice.MediumComplexity: medium. Estimates preparation, facilitation effort, and method confidence needed.Workshop + asyncFormat: workshop or async. Shows whether the method works in a workshop, asynchronously, or both.
2–4 h review as a planning range; preparation and evaluation additional