Mapping the Ecosystem: Start With Simple Loops

Mapping the Ecosystem: Start With Simple Loops

In the last blog post, we identified the elements of a system. We begin to think about the interrelationships between the elements and begin building “loops.” Loops are like chain reactions. One chain link leads to another link and eventually the chain circles back...
System elements and their interconnectedness

System elements and their interconnectedness

When our consultants introduce systems thinking one of the favorite videos we share is How Wolves Change Rivers. Take a minute and notice the elements of Yellowstone Park’s ecosystem. Trees, forests, birds, deer, beaver, otters, ducks, coyotes, rabbits, hawks, ravens,...
Are you feeling burned out?

Are you feeling burned out?

Are you feeling burnout? Are you feeling discouraged or unmotivated?  Me too.  Burnout is not just about being overworked. It is about no longer feeling the impact of your efforts. It is about being discouraged. When these feelings start to itch, we can...
Systems and Ecosystems

Systems and Ecosystems

It seems like the first thing to do in a blog series about systems thinking is to define a system. A variety of resources agree that a system is a set of interconnected components that work together to achieve a common goal. It’s a bounded entity with defined...
What does soup have to do with evaluation?

What does soup have to do with evaluation?

What does soup have to do with evaluation? It’s winter in North Carolina. It’s time to bring my favorite cookbook out and start making soups, stews and chili. These are some of my favorite meals to fix in the winter months. But what does cooking soup have...