Addressing Complexity and Systems Thinking Toolkit

If you’re just getting started, we recommend you begin with Introduction to Systems Thinking.

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Guidelines for drawing causal loop diagrams

A 4-page guide to drawing causal loop diagrams, with easy-to-follow steps and examples.

Hospital congestion using system dynamics

A detailed lecture showcasing an application of systems dynamics methodology to identify the causes of, and solutions to, hospital congestion.

How to succeed in system dynamics without really trying

A short video offering a unique perspective on how to master system dynamics with ease.

Infectious disease model in NetLogo

A short video showcasing a detailed example of an infectious disease model using NetLogo.

Introduction to agent-based modelling for social scientists

A workshop offering social scientists a detailed introduction to agent-based modeling, including an applied example with NetLogo.

Introduction to systems and systems thinking

An article introducing systems thinking, with helpful definitions, diagrams, and link to key resources.

Introduction to systems dynamics

This short video provides a foundational exploration into system dynamics, with examples showcasing its applications across sectors.

Introduction to systems dynamics modelling

A detailed introductory lecture that covers the basics of system dynamics, and an overview of how to create models using Powersim Studio.

Introduction to systems thinking

An article providing a detailed guide to systems thinking, with an overview of fundamental concepts and methodology.

Mental models and human reasoning

A concise paper that explores the role of mental models in human thought processes, reasoning, and decision-making.

Mental models, cognitive maps, and quantitative analysis

An overview and critical appraisal of different methods used to quantitatively analyze mental models and cognitive maps.

Modeling a comprehensive approach to gun violence prevention

A short video overviewing the use of quantitative system dynamics to model gun violence in New York State.

Modeling the covid-19 pandemic: a primer and overview

A detailed walkthrough showcasing how to use Stella Architect to create a diffusion model for the COVID-19 pandemic.

Observations from a system dynamics modeling field school in Mali

A paper providing an example of a 1-week field course taught to complete beginners on systems thinking and system dynamics modelling.

Participatory systems mapping

A book chapter on a novel methodology (participatory systems mapping) for building and analysing causal system models in groups.

Pocket guide: systems archetypes at a glance

A one-page guide to eight different systems archetypes, with stock-and-flow diagrams, descriptions, and helpful guidelines.

Reconciling the four schools of thought in system dynamics

An article overviewing the state of the systems dynamics field and its future, with discussion on different schools of thought and the issue of quality.

Running systems mapping workshops

A book chapter providing a practical guide on running systems mapping workshops, with instructions on planning and facilitation.

Stella modelling tutorials

A webpage with links to all the tutorials you'll need to become a pro at modelling with Stella.

Stella: sample models

A webpage containing nearly 100 example Stella models to provide instruction and inspiration.