
46 The Complete Guide to Systems Thinking and Learning
Tool #1 Systems Preconditions: Question—Which Entity?
Application of Seven Levels of Living Systems and
Systems Dynamics #3: System Boundaries
Identify which overall system or systems are trying to change (which organization, alliance,
partnership, business process, etc.). Also be clear on its boundaries and limitations physically
and mentally. Where does it begin and end?
While this question may seem so obvious that it doesn’t even need to be asked, we have seen
over and over again that people’s thought processes are so unclear as to make this a
precondition
to any intelligent and effective action ...