Since I posted only one wish so far, I thought it was fair to respond to
this a second time with something else that came to mind:
Subject: Systems Thinking Tools
When I read "The Fifth Discipline" and "The Fifth Discipline Fieldbook" I
found that it was easier to comprehend something when systems-thinking
tools were used along with the explanation. When trying to explain
something to someone else, I found myself attempting to use these tools to
help others see the dynamics as I was seeing them (exposing my mental
models).
I would like to learn how to use these tools more effectively and I
continue to study many of the examples given in the two books above, and
some other publications I purchased through Pegasus Communications. One
is called "Systems Archetypes I". I left the other at work and don't have
it with me as I write this. At some point, I may ask my employer to allow
me to take one of the seminars offered for this. However, I am more
interested, now in understanding whether others have used these tools in
team settings and how they feel about them.
If anyone is willing to share their experiences about systems-thinking
tools I would appreciate seeing some posts. Some of the things I am
looking for include:
1) Did you find it difficult to comprehend?
2) Did you have formal training or were you able to learn it without?
3) Have you applied the skill at work and how effective did you find it in
communicating your thoughts?
4) Have others expressed an interest in learning the skill after seeing it's
potential.
5) In general, does anyone know how widely used this skill is among
"systems" people?
I look forward to hearing about your experiences.
-- Diane Korzeniewski Product Designer General Motors Corp. ToCOLLABR8@aol.com kzpp50@hqs.mid.gmeds.com