To create meaningful interventions, you must first understand the context of the system in which you are designing. Design thinking has a bias towards creating products and services that later may become problems in a system’s context. The integration of Systems Thinking, into the
Design Thinking process, gives context to the scope of design work and enables the creation of more meaningful and intentional solutions. It is a means of embracing the chaos and explore the interconnected complexities of the system.
Design thinking is a reductive approach to problem-solving, that may lead to the creation of unintended consequences. In contrast, systems thinking is a holistic lens to view context and the encompassing system that designs are intended to fit, all while taking into consideration the interdependencies and relation of all elements. “It is the ability to see the forests from the trees, and using that information to make decisions.”
Six key themes emerged throughout my research. 1, How High Do You Fly, How Low Do You Go?: Determining the boundaries and scope of an inquiry, the amount of context needed to achieve the desired results, shifting to a systemic mindset, problem ‘setting’ instead of ‘solving’, and understanding the broader context of systems that we impact and shape. 2, Small Hinges Open Big Doors: Small changes and interventions can create a significant impact on every level of the system. Identifying leverage points, opportunities for change, and a means to empower the system. 3, The Business Case For & Against Humanity: There is a need for evolving metrics to measure the business impact that is not solely based on the organizations’ bottom line. Sustainable business models, alternative ways to track success, and short-termism compared to longterm incentives—the need for making a case for designing resilience and sustainability into the business. How might we come closer to aligning business objectives with societal and human- centered goals? 4, Red Teaming For The Future: Alternative futures, unintended consequences, design ethics and responsibilities. The need for understanding causality within the systems we are designing and proactively addressing unforeseen weaknesses. 5, Systems Are Personal: Recognizing your role in a system and use of “othering” language when defining and setting problems—empowering the system by empowering individuals. 6, Ego-System to Ecosystem: There is immense value in having a transdisciplinary approach and perspective— understanding power, authority and roles in a system, recognizing privilege, and shifting positions.
