The Systems Thinker: Essential Thinking Skills (The Systems Thinker Series, #1)

by Albert Rutherford

Let’s talk about the levels of the iceberg you can see in diagram 17.. 1. The Event Level People perceive the world at the event level most of the time. For example, waking up in the middle of the night realizing that you’re thirsty is an event level analysis. Event level problems can often be solved with a simple correction, like drinking a glass of water. However, the iceberg model encourages us to dig deeper instead of automatically assuming that the problem we are facing is indeed an event level problem. Instead of just reacting to our thirst, let’s dig deeper. 2. The Pattern Level When we look beyond events, we often identify patterns. Events with strong resemblance have been occurring with us over time – we have been very thirsty in differing parts of the day. Maybe we are dangerously dehydrated. Acknowledging patterns helps us forecast and forestall events. 3. The Structure Level When we try to find the answer to the question, “What’s the cause of the pattern we are observing?” we usually conclude that it’s some kind of structure. Because of our increased workload in the heat of the day, we often forget to drink enough water and this has taken its toll on our body in the summer heat. Professor John Gerber informs us that structures can include the following things:[lxviii] - Physical things — stores, sidewalks, or benches in a park. - Organizations — corporations, hospitals, and schools. - Policies — regulations, restrictions, or taxes. - Rituals — subconsciou...