Learning Systems Thinking

Part III. We Are a System of Thinking

Systemic reasoning is the art and science of supporting ideas, concepts, recommendations, or theories with sound reasons. We need systemic reasoning when conditions are uncertain…and the vast majority of the time, in software systems, there is no One Right Way of doing things. There is only the best possible solution, under the circumstances, based on what we currently know. When people strengthen their reasoning together, they build conceptual integrity (and, therefore, more impactful systems).

Reasoning together depends on building conceptual bridges between different points of view. It also depends on learning from people with expertise you don’t have. We generate the flow of knowledge that improves systems thinking with feedback loops. Most of the time, this means we need to rethink the way “feedback” currently happens.

Systems thinking, reasoning, and discovering root causes of systemic challenges are all forms of pattern thinking. In many ways, pattern thinking is synonymous with systems thinking. In Part III, you will practice systemic reasoning, design feedback loops that improve your reasoning skills, and identify the types of patterns that, when thinking in systems, will usually demand our attention.