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Systems Approaches to Making Change: A Practical Guide pp 1–24Cite as

Introducing Systems Approaches

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Abstract

The five approaches covered in Systems Approaches to Making Change – System Dynamics (SD) Viable Systems Model (VSM), Strategic Options Development and Analysis (SODA: with cognitive mapping), Soft Systems Methodology (SSM), and Critical Systems Heuristics (CSH) – are introduced. The rationale for their inclusion is described based on their (i) common historic emergence in dealing with complex situations of change and uncertainty, (ii) shared potential and actual constructivist use of the systems idea, and (iii) pedigree of adaptability and versatility of tools in working with other approaches to making change.

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Notes

  1. 1.

    Originally sequenced by Checkland as (1) methodology, (2) users, and (3) situation. Re-sequenced for our purposes.

  2. 2.

    Later as Fig. 7.5 in the Epilogue, this mental model is further developed towards a systems thinking in practice heuristic.

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Author information

Authors and Affiliations

  1. School of Engineering and Innovation, The Open University, Milton Keynes, UK

    Martin Reynolds

  2. The Open University, Milton Keynes, UK

    Sue Holwell

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  1. Martin Reynolds
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  2. Sue Holwell
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Correspondence to Martin Reynolds .

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Editors and Affiliations

  1. School of Engineering and Innovation, The Open University, Milton Keynes, UK

    Martin Reynolds

  2. The Open University, Milton Keynes, UK

    Sue Holwell (Retired)

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Reynolds, M., Holwell, S. (2020). Introducing Systems Approaches. In: Reynolds, M., Holwell (Retired), S. (eds) Systems Approaches to Making Change: A Practical Guide. Springer, London. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-4471-7472-1_1

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-4471-7472-1_1

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