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Dynamic Business Models for Dealing with Competition

March 20 at 11 am NY | 3 pm London | 11 pm Beijing | Time Converter

This seminar is part of our special series System Dynamics for Business Innovation with Kim Warren. A series of nine webinars offering a deep dive into the application of System dynamics in Business. The sessions will explore strategic modeling techniques and their transformative impact across different business domains, from strategic management to IT systems planning and environmental impact. This series will reveal the potential of System Dynamics as a powerful tool for business innovation and complex decision-making.

Session 3

Dynamic Business Models for Dealing with Competition

Overview

This session will introduce participants to the use of dynamic business models (DBMs) for understanding and dealing with competitive challenges and opportunities. The session will explain exactly how competition plays out over time, through three standard mechanisms – mechanisms that are easily explored with quantified diagramming and modeled in detail with digital-twin business models.

Learning Outcomes

  • Understand, with a case example, the three standard mechanisms driving the outcomes of competitive interactions.
  • Appreciate how dynamic business models enable competitive strategies to be explored, under a range of scenarios.
  • Understand the differences in how competition works in different markets and at different stages of a market’s life.

Target Audience

  • Business professionals seeking powerful new knowledge in competitive strategy.
  • Managers and executives looking to understand and take control of both their general competitive strategy and of specific competitive initiatives.
  • Students and academics interested in business strategy and competitive analysis.

This webinar is designed to provide an introduction to dynamic business modeling in the context of business competition, suitable for those beginning to explore these concepts.

Certificate of Attendance

Attendees who participate in at least 6 out of the 9 webinars in the series will be eligible to receive a certificate titled “Introduction to Dynamic Business Models.” This is an opportunity to gain recognition of your learning in this innovative field. For those who cannot attend live sessions, recordings will be available, allowing you to review the material and complete the series at your convenience

About the Presenter

Kim Warren is an accomplished strategist with a wealth of experience in the business world. He spent 10 years in senior strategy roles, including as Retail Strategy Director at Whitbread PLC. Warren then transitioned to academia, teaching Strategic Management at London Business School for two decades. During his tenure, he developed a keen interest in System Dynamics, finding traditional strategy tools insufficient for modern business challenges. This led him to embrace and adapt System Dynamics, creating the Strategy Dynamics method. Warren’s method focuses on designing and managing business systems dynamically to adapt to changing markets and internal business conditions. He has authored influential books on the subject, including “Competitive Strategy Dynamics” and “Strategic Management Dynamics,” and has been recognized with the prestigious Jay Wright Forrester Award from the International System Dynamics Society, where he also served as president in 2013. Warren, along with his partner Christina Spencer, has developed a range of learning materials and courses to disseminate the Strategy Dynamics method, utilizing the Silico online modeling app to support this approach.

For more detailed information, you can visit his website here.

Up Next

Dynamic Business Models for Strategic Management Accounting

Feb, 28  at 11 am NY | 4 pm London | 12 am Beijing | Time Converter

This seminar is part of our special series System Dynamics for Business Innovation with Kim Warren. A series of nine webinars offering a deep dive into the application of System dynamics in Business. The sessions will explore strategic modeling techniques and their transformative impact across different business domains, from strategic management to IT systems planning and environmental impact. This series will reveal the potential of System Dynamics as a powerful tool for business innovation and complex decision-making.

Session 2

Dynamic Business Models for Strategic Management Accounting

Overview

This session explains the aims of strategic management accounting (SMA) – giving senior leaders insight about how a business develops and performs, beyond just the financials – and the challenges faced by those trying to do so. This seminar will explain that strategic management covers many more responsibilities than simply building the business plan. It will show that Dynamic Business Models can very largely fulfill those needs, in an efficient, reliable and  transparent manner. DBMs provide exactly the joined-up view of a business and financials that leaders say they want. (The session is supported by two substantial practitioner articles)

Learning Outcomes

Target Audience

This session is designed to provide practical skills and theoretical knowledge, making it valuable for professionals aiming to leverage dynamic modeling in strategic management accounting.

Certificate of Attendance

Attendees who participate in at least 6 out of the 9 webinars in the series will be eligible to receive a certificate titled “Introduction to Dynamic Business Models.” This is an opportunity to gain recognition of your learning in this innovative field. For those who cannot attend live sessions, recordings will be available, allowing you to review the material and complete the series at your convenience

About the Presenter

Kim Warren is an accomplished strategist with a wealth of experience in the business world. He spent 10 years in senior strategy roles, including as Retail Strategy Director at Whitbread PLC. Warren then transitioned to academia, teaching Strategic Management at London Business School for two decades. During his tenure, he developed a keen interest in System Dynamics, finding traditional strategy tools insufficient for modern business challenges. This led him to embrace and adapt System Dynamics, creating the Strategy Dynamics method. Warren’s method focuses on designing and managing business systems dynamically to adapt to changing markets and internal business conditions. He has authored influential books on the subject, including “Competitive Strategy Dynamics” and “Strategic Management Dynamics,” and has been recognized with the prestigious Jay Wright Forrester Award from the International System Dynamics Society, where he also served as president in 2013. Warren, along with his partner Christina Spencer, has developed a range of learning materials and courses to disseminate the Strategy Dynamics method, utilizing the Silico online modeling app to support this approach.

For more detailed information, you can visit his website here.

Up Next

How Did En-ROADS Get 755,000 users? Lessons on Modeling, Interface Design, and Facilitation

May, 8 at 11 am NY | 4 pm London | 11 pm Beijing | Time Converter

How Did En-ROADS Get 755,000 Users? Lessons on Modeling, Interface Design, and Facilitation

In this participatory webinar, Drew Jones of Climate Interactive will share insights on how to create a System Dynamics model and online simulator that will succeed at improving mental models and system performance at scale. The teams at Climate Interactive, MIT Sloan, and Ventana Systems designed its System Dynamics models C-ROADS and En-ROADS with the goal of improving the understanding of climate policy choices amongst decision-makers around the world, leading to deliberate strategies in three major areas: 1) modeling, 2) interface/UX design, and 3) facilitation, workshop design, game creation, training, and user support. This webinar will cover the design decisions made over the ~30 years of the project, generalizing the more universal insights for any system dynamics project.

About the Presenter

Andrew (Drew) Jones is Co-Founder and Co-Director of Climate Interactive. An expert on international climate and energy issues, his quotes and data stories appear in the New York Times, The Washington Post, and other media. Jones and his team at CI and MIT Sloan developed the climate simulations used by John Kerry and others to secure the 2014 bi-lateral U.S.-China deal that set up the Paris Agreement, as well as currently in the White House and Congress. Trained in System Dynamics modeling at Dartmouth College and MIT, Jones has worked at Rocky Mountain Institute and was a protégé of Dana Meadows. Jones co-accepted the System Dynamics Society’s award for the best real-world application of modeling. He won Dartmouth College’s Ray W. Smith award for the most significant contribution to the status of the College.

Workshop: Visualize and Analyze Complex Challenges the Easy Way

February, 7 at 11 am NY | 4 pm London | 12 am Beijing | Time Converter

Workshop: Visualize and Analyze Complex Challenges the Easy Way

Facing challenges that involve multiple interacting factors requires a methodical approach to visualize and analyze these interconnections. Qualitative modeling provides a straightforward way to map out cause-and-effect relationships. This approach is adaptable, suitable for use in workshops, collaborative models, or individual analysis.

This workshop introduces the user-friendly Consideo iModeler tool to assign weights to connections without the need for complex formulas. Utilizing the Insight Matrix, participants can easily identify key factors that either contribute to or hinder progress towards their objectives.

The session delves into the scientific principles underpinning this qualitative approach, explaining how results are derived. Additionally, it offers a comparative analysis of qualitative and quantitative models, drawing on real-world project examples. This seminar is designed to equip you with the tools to make informed decisions in complex scenarios.

About the Presenter

Kai Neumann has over 25 years of experience serving as a full-time systems thinker and modeler, both as a business consultant and scientist. His expertise spans a broad range of topics, including systemic strategy development, process optimization, global energy transition, food security, and transformation. Additionally, he delves into e-mobility, artificial intelligence, welfare economics, and political strategies. His extensive experience and diverse skill set make him a valuable asset in various fields.

About Consideo iModeler

Consideo iModeler is a cutting-edge software tool designed to visualize and analyze complex situations, making it easier for users to plan, make decisions, and communicate more effectively. This software stands out for its unique Insight Matrix feature, which provides a revolutionary way to handle complexity. It allows both qualitative and quantitative modeling, including System Dynamics for scenario modeling.

Systems Thinking for Sustainability: A Proposal for International Cooperation

January, 17 at 11 am NY | 4 pm London | 12 am Beijing | Time Converter

Systems Thinking for Sustainability: A Proposal for International Cooperation.

The international cooperation proposal “System Thinking for Sustainability” is an initiative led by the Autonomous University of Bucaramanga (UNAB) whose fundamental objective is to address current challenges in favor of global sustainability. It is based on the application of Systems Thinking, a comprehensive approach that seeks to understand and solve complex problems from a holistic and interconnected perspective.

This proposal focuses on promoting sustainable development through collaboration and promoting innovative solutions. Through the analysis of complex systems and the identification of interdependent relationships, it seeks to find strategies to address contemporary dilemmas in key areas such as energy transition, organizational and institutional change for sustainability, water management, cybersecurity and the promotion of education and scientific vocations.

A look at the problems of dissemination of systems thinking: Recognizing the challenges of effectively disseminating Systems Thinking, the proposal focuses on identifying strategies to overcome dissemination barriers and promote a broader and deeper understanding of this approach, promoting its adoption and application in various areas and sectors.

An organizational proposal for coordination to improve impact: The initiative focuses on establishing an effective organizational structure that facilitates coordination between various actors interested in Systems Thinking. It seeks to enhance the impact of this approach by creating collaborative platforms, knowledge-sharing networks and strategies to promote its practical application in relevant contexts.

Development of educational tools and resources: The creation and dissemination of educational materials and practical tools that allow the understanding and effective application of Systems Thinking are sought. This includes the development of digital resources, methodological guides and training programs to encourage greater adoption and understanding of this approach.

About the Presenter

Jorge Parra Valencia is recognized for his expertise and contributions in various fields. As a seasoned professional, his areas of specialization include Computer and Information Sciences, Educational Sciences, and Engineering and Technology. Jorge’s research interests are diverse and significant, encompassing Systems Thinking, Systems Thinking in Education, System Dynamics, Social Dilemmas of Cooperation, and Modeling and Simulation of Complex Phenomena. His proficiency in research and development is evident as he consistently aids companies and clients in reaching their goals and resolving intricate issues. His approach combines creativity, systemic thinking, and rigorous research, making him a valuable asset in his field.

 

How to Review for the International System Dynamics Conference 2024

March 8, 2024 at 11 am NY | 4 pm London | 12 am Beijing | Time Converter

This session is designed for potential conference submission reviewers of the International System Dynamics Conference (ISDC) 2024. Please review the “How to Review for ISDC 2024” slide deck. We will discuss what makes a constructive review for authors and informative for the Conference Program Committee. The conference review format emphasizes written comments and are described in the conference Submission Instructions. Join us to learn tips on how to write better reviews!

About the Discussion Moderators

Hazhir Rahmandad, Mohammad Jalali, and Susan Howick are the Conference Program Chairs this year.

Submissions Instructions

Read the Submission Instructions and submit your work by March 19th, 2024

Conference Registration

The International System Dynamics Conference will be held in Bergen, Norway and Online on August 4 -8, 2024. Take advantage of our early-bird rates and save on conference registration fees. Members get an extra $100 discount. Unlock all Benefits

Integrating Systems Thinking into Science Education and Curriculum

April 24, 2024 at 9 am NY | 2 pm London | 9 pm Beijing | Time Converter

Integrating Systems Thinking into Science Education and Curriculum

For teaching and learning science through rich-contexts and complex real-world scenarios, application of systems thinking approaches offers convenient platform. This framework can be well integrated into problem-based learning, learning from case studies, project-based approaches etc. Compared to reductionist approach, systems approach will also facilitate students’ holistic and interdisciplinary understanding about a complex problem. Along these lines, this seminar focuses to explore the scope of applying systems thinking concepts into science teaching and curriculum with a focus in the context of chemistry teaching and learning.

About the Presenter

Dr. Bellam Sreenivasulu, Senior Lecturer and Resident Fellow at the Residential College-4 (RC4), National University of Singapore (NUS), holds a Ph.D. in Chemistry and a postdoctoral fellowship from the Institute of Chemical and Engineering Sciences (ASTAR, ICES). He has extensive teaching experience in chemistry and applied chemistry such as supramolecular chemistry. Currently, at RC4, Dr. Bellam specializes in systems thinking and system dynamics (ST&SD) curriculum with a focus on modeling real-world complex problems in relation to energy systems- sustainable energy, renewable energy, carbon emissions etc. He also teaches topics such as ‘Sleep Health for Holistic Wellbeing’ applying systems thinking approach. His educational research interests include chemistry education, ST&SD education exploring students’ learning and misconceptions in these areas.

 

Hands-On Workshop: Modeling Non-Renewable Resources Dynamics

Feb 21, 2024 at 9 am NY | 2 pm London | 10 pm Beijing | Time Converter

Hands-On Workshop: System Dynamics Modeling Non-Renewable Resources Dynamics

This session about modeling the depletion of non-renewable resources is intended to enable participants to understand the problem holistically through systems approach. First, they will learn to construct causal loop diagrams (feedback loops) by applying systems thinking concepts, and then learn to develop stock and flow diagrams as models for simulations to study how a system structure generates the behavior of overshoot and collapse of non-renewable resources. At the end of this session, the participants will be enabled to:

  • Identify the cause and effect interactions among the key variables in the given system scenario to develop feedback loops
  • Build stock and flow diagram to quantify the model on Vensim
  • Run the simulations on Vensim to observe predicted dynamic behavior
  • Propose policies for sustainable use of resources

This hands-on practice session is intended to engage beginners in the field of systems thinking and System Dynamics. It is expected to run for 2 hours.

Download the Software

This workshop will make use of Vensim PLE, the free version of the modeling software provided by Ventana Systems. To ensure efficient use of time during the workshop, we kindly ask all participants to download the software in advance from https://vensim.com/free-downloads/

Pre-Work Tasks

Before attending the workshop, please complete the PRE-WORK TASKS to ensure a productive learning experience:

  1. Watch the introductory segment (up to 10 minutes) of the video on ‘drawing causal loop diagrams (CLDs) in Vensim’ to familiarize yourself with the basics of CLD creation in Vensim. Access the video here: Vensim Causal Loop Diagramming Video.
  2. Practice drawing CLDs by replicating the example shown in the video. Once comfortable, save your version of the CLD in the ‘.mdl’ format with your name as the filename.
  3. Learn about constructing simple Stock and Flow Models in Vensim by watching the relevant video. This will provide foundational knowledge in creating stock and flow diagrams (SFD). Access the video here: Building a Simple Vensim Model.

About the Instructor

Dr. Bellam Sreenivasulu, Senior Lecturer and Resident Fellow at the Residential College-4 (RC4), National University of Singapore (NUS), holds a Ph.D. in Chemistry and a postdoctoral fellowship from the Institute of Chemical and Engineering Sciences (ASTAR, ICES). He has extensive teaching experience in chemistry and applied chemistry such as supramolecular chemistry. Currently, at RC4, Dr. Bellam specializes in systems thinking and system dynamics (ST&SD) curriculum with a focus on modeling real-world complex problems in relation to energy systems- sustainable energy, renewable energy, carbon emissions etc. He also teaches topics such as ‘Sleep Health for Holistic Wellbeing’ applying systems thinking approach. His educational research interests include chemistry education, ST&SD education exploring students’ learning and misconceptions in these areas.

 

Navigating Client Dissatisfaction

11 am NY | 3 pm London | 11 pm Beijing | Time Converter

Navigating Client Dissatisfaction

Every consultant has their share of success stories, but what happens when the client doesn’t like the analysis? Dive deep into the realities of professional consultancy where not every project ends with a fairy tale conclusion. In this session, Dennis Sherwood will share his personal journey of a decade-long engagement with a government client. Through this lens, he will shed light on the complexities and challenges faced when results don’t align with client expectations.

Join us to:

  • Delve into the intricate dynamics of client relationships beyond conventional success narratives.
  • Unpack strategies to manage, navigate, and turn around situations when clients are dissatisfied with the outcomes.
  • Engage in an open forum to share your own experiences of when project outcomes diverged from client expectations.

About the Presenter

Dennis Sherwood has championed organizational innovation and creativity for over 20 years through his UK-based consultancy. A fervent advocate of systems thinking, Dennis’s vast experience ranges from being a consulting partner at Deloitte to holding pivotal roles at establishments like Goldman Sachs and SRI Consulting. An acclaimed author, Dennis has authored 15 books on topics spanning innovation, creativity, and systems thinking, with titles such as “Seeing the Forest for the Trees” and “How to Be Creative: A Practical Guide for the Mathematical Sciences.” Join us as Dennis unravels the nuances of client relationships, providing invaluable insights from his distinguished career.

Systems Thinking Through Storytelling

1 pm NY | 6 pm London | 2 am (Nov 16) Beijing | Time Converter

Systems Thinking Through Storytelling

Join us for a free seminar with Linda Booth Sweeney and Philip Ramsey, systems educators and authors whose books help teach about systems thinking through storytelling.

Linda will share “Curious about Connections,” a simple, inquiry-based teaching framework that fosters collaborative, inclusive dialogue while promoting systems thinking, critical thinking, communication skills, and empathy. She’ll demonstrate how to use this facilitation method using picture books as well as everyday scenarios. She is excited to share this facilitation method with our System Dynamics community and to explore ways families, teachers, and professionals can use it in a variety of settings.

Phil will share about his newly published Billibonk and Frankl book series, a collection of captivating jungle-based fables that showcase principles of systems thinking through the experiences of various animal characters. The stories are engaging and relatable to both children and adults, as they demonstrate how different species in the jungle learn to collaborate and solve problems together. The Billibonk and Frankl stories aim to help children see systems and interdependencies in the world around them.

About the Speakers

Linda Booth Sweeney is an educator, writer and strategist for healthy socio-ecological systems change, Dr. Linda Booth Sweeney is internationally recognized for her efforts to make systems thinking actionable by a wide range of audiences. In her Systems Leadership Labs, Linda creates experiences for leaders to think differently, and to experiment with language, visualization tools and knowledge architecture that better mirrors the complexity they are navigating. She is co-author of The Systems Thinking PlaybookThe Climate Change Playbook, and numerous other books and journal articles. Her next book, Apart Togetheris a gentle introduction to systems thinking for children and will be published by Balzer & Bray in October 2023.  Linda holds her doctorate from Harvard’s Graduate School of Education and lives outside of Boston where she enjoys swimming in Walden Pond and amateur farming.  For more information, see:

(systems), www.lindaboothsweeney.net

(children’s) www.lindaboothsweeney.com

(metaverse) https://togglelab.com

Phil is a Senior lecturer at Massey University in New Zealand, where he teaches Organizational Learning, Leadership, and Teamwork. He also works as a Director of Incite Learning, a consulting company that mainly works with schools, helping school leaders apply Organizational Learning concepts to solve tough problems.