Applying Systems Thinking and
Common Archetypes to Organizational Issues
Module 6: Systems Archetypes
Module Description
The "Systems Archetypes" module introduces you to nine system structures that occur frequently and have been researched over a period of years. The five archetypes presented in depth are the three most common, basic stories and two additional ones that are likely to be relevant in your work environment. These are:
- Fixes that Backfire
- Shifting the Burden
- Limits to Success
- Tragedy of the Commons
- Accidental Adversaries
The other four archetypes build on the basic stories and occur somewhat less frequently in typical management situations. These are:
- Escalation
- Success to the Successful
- Drifting Goals
- Growth and Underinvestment
A careful study of these archetypes will allow you take shortcuts in diagnosing the structures underlying situations of interest to you. Each archetype consists of a classic story and a feedback loop template where you can attempt to fill in the blanks with the specifics of your situation. While there is no value in force-fitting your case to a template, the exercise of considering whether a specific archetype applies can yield important insights into the structure you would like to change.
The module contains a set of guidelines for using the classic stories to understand structures, present them to others, and consider possible interventions.