Systems Management Seminars
Descriptions:
Problem solving: What should we do?
This
seminar introduces organisational problem solving, using the systems approach. Systems thinking is used as a basis for understanding
problem solving as a process of group inquiry. Practical methods, which help to
define what should be done in a particular situation, are introduced. We
demonstrate methods for building shared understanding of underlying causal
factors and their interactions. We present methods that are designed to
encourage participative group learning.
Process
Ø
The seminar
starts with an overview of the principles of problem solving.
Ø
We
teach a technique for problem solving by guiding the participants through the
application of this technique to their chosen organisational problems.
Outcomes
q
Participants develop an understanding of
the complexities of organisational problem solving
q
They develop an ability to deal with the
interrelationships between the factors of the system.
Seminar 2: Scenario Planning
Scenario Planning:
Implementing Strategic Learning
This workshop deals with the
process of long term, strategic planning using scenarios. It stresses the
importance of viewing strategic planning as an integrated learning process.
Process.
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It gives a framework for planning activities using scenario
development
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Real case scenarios are presented to illustrate the process
Outcomes
q
Participants better
understand the need to make planning an ongoing activity
q
They develop the
ability to do rudimentary environmental scanning
q
They develop an
ability to sketch scenarios based on key uncertainties
q
They learn how to do
scenario planning for their own work situations
Designing Strategy
In this workshop participants are encouraged to think of
strategy as on ongoing activity designed to assist them to reassess their
position against a fast and ever changing back drop of the environment. They
are given hands on models and tools for assisting them in these activities.
Process
Ø
The
game “Stratagem”. This is a complex and ingenious game which helps participants
understand the complexity of systems by having to manage a country. They also
apply the Kolbe Learning cycle to the situation. This helps them to apply a
model to apply a learning cycle in their situation.
Ø
They are introduced to a model which assists
them to understand the seven forces operating in our environment
Ø
They
are introduced to a model which highlights the generation of business success
and the factors that contribute to it. They understand the ideas of distinctive
competencies and competitive advantage.
Outcomes
q
Participants develop the understanding
the strategy is a behaviour rather than a technique
q
They go away with hands-on expertise for
using powerful tools and models to make that behaviour happen
q
They gain understanding of and insight
into business success and the factors that contribute to it.
Seminar 3: Day 2:
This
workshop deals with how organisations may be structured, and how the parts
interact. Be warned! If your interest is drawing organograms,
this unit is not for you; if your interest is in improving the organisation of
your organisation, then read on. The material covers a fundamental rethink of
the way in which organisations should be designed for survival.
Process
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Introduction
of some systemic tools for inquiry into organisational forms.
Ø
We
introduce a template for an organisation which is designed for high control and high autonomy.
Ø
Participants
are introduced to the principles of two
organisational models
Ø
They
are encouraged to become familiar with these principles by them to their
organisation.
Outcomes
q
Participants develop
an understanding of the principles needed to be followed when designing a
viable organisation
q
They develop an ability to measure and evaluate an existing
organisational structure for viability.
They learn how to make designing an organisation a
participative process