Systems Thinking

Tree-by-Tree Thinking

narrow, highly disaggregated with many variables per relationship
the longer we operate within one function, the more details we tend to see and the less perspective there is on the whole
decomposing and breaking things down
problem: get pulled down into more and more detail, refining the analysis with increasing numerical accuracy. However, detail and numerical accuracy often is insufficient for break through understanding.

Forest Thinking

broad, highly aggregated with few variables per relationship
reduces the depth that can be viewed; broader, yet shallower picture
synthesis, putting pieces together into different combinations
view the system of relationships that link the component parts
skills needed: proper elevation above the detail and the ability to filter our the non-essential detail

Building elevation skills:
- Boundaries - what assumptions are limiting your view?
- Walls - what organizations or cultural structures are limiting?

Building filtering skills:
- Look for similarities, not differences (very difficult since differentiation is at the core of our learning)
- Also train your mind to focus on what's most important

Jump to System Thinking Resources for more information.

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Transformative Networking – connecting change leaders to enable self-organized grassroots change.
http://groups.google.com/group/transformative-networking

Next Steps – While still conceptual, transformative networking offers the possibility of leading change through the networking of those already interested or involved in similar initiatives, effectively tearing down existing silos of practice that exist across disciplines and fields of work. The next step is to develop a proof of concept built on the theoretical underpinnings above, possibly using Google Wave as the collaboration platform. Included will be identifying the minimal structure and governance required to enable self-organization within the network while not constraining what might emerge. Join this initiative and help create the future of organizing - networking communities of interest.
http://groups.google.com/group/transformative-networking

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