Intro to Systems Thinking: Seeing the Whole Problem, Not the Symptom

Workshop Description

Why This Session, Now

Recurring business problems do not always have a single cause. A quick fix may address the immediate symptom, but the issue returns because surrounding factors haven’t changed.

In this introductory workshop, you will use a simple systems-thinking approach to look at a recurring problem in context.

Through a worked example and guided activity, you will map the people, factors and relationships involved, identify patterns that may be keeping the problem going, and consider where a more useful intervention could be made.

Learning Outcomes

What You’ll Learn

How to frame a recurring problem and decide what sits inside or outside the system you are looking at.
How to identify the people, resources, constraints and outcomes connected to the problem.
How causal relationships and reinforcing or balancing feedback loops can contribute to patterns that repeat over time.
How to look for delays, unintended consequences and possible leverage points before deciding what to change.

Key Takeaways

What You’ll Leave With

A simple system map of one recurring business or service problem.
A clearer view of the relationships, assumptions and information gaps around the problem.
One possible intervention point and what to observe to see whether it helps.
A practical checklist for applying the same thinking to other recurring problems after the workshop.

Target Audience

Who It’s For

Managers, strategists, designers and team leads who deal with recurring or cross-functional business problems and want a structured way to understand what may be contributing to them.

Prerequisites

What to Bring and Preparation

Bring one recurring business, team, customer or service problem that has not been fully resolved by an obvious fix. You will use it during the guided activity, so choose an example you can discuss in general terms.

Event Agenda

2.00

Welcome: seeing the wider business system

2.10

Systems thinking basics: boundaries, actors and causal links

2.35

Worked example: causal map, feedback loops and delays

3.00

Guided activity: map your recurring business problem

3.30

Finding leverage points and testing interventions

3.45

Review, Q&A and workplace application

Your Trainer

Mohan Mirwani

Systems Thinking & Innovation

Mohan Mirwani helps organisations move from knowing they need to innovate to actually doing it. As CEO of Think Quick, he has worked with organisations like IRAS, Singapore Power, CPF Board, SingLife, and DKSH to build real innovation capability, not just awareness. He helps leaders and teams develop the mindset, tools, and habits to tackle complex problems and drive meaningful change.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is this event for?

Managers, strategists, designers and team leads dealing with recurring cross-functional problems.

Do I need prior experience?

No prior experience is required. The workshop is designed as a practical introduction.

What should I bring or prepare?

Bring a recurring business or service problem that has resisted an obvious fix.

Is the session interactive or hands-on?

Yes. This is an introductory session with a guided exercise and time to apply the central idea.

Where is the event held and how do I join?

Equinet Academy, 10 Anson Road, #18-24 International Plaza, Singapore 079903. International Plaza is immediately outside Tanjong Pagar MRT Exit C. The confirmation email will state the assigned room.

Will I receive a recording or materials?

Any included resources will be stated in the confirmation email. Please plan to attend live, as a recording should not be assumed unless the event page expressly includes one.