A framework for systemic analysis of complex issues

This paper introduces a systems‐based framework to facilitate structured analysis of complex issues. The framework was created out of a management development effort with the primary emphasis on development of systems problem‐solving skills through analysis of complex operational issues. Drawing from systems science, the strength of the approach rests inthe holistic analysis of structure, relationships, and emergent dynamics of problematic situations. The fundamental systems principles underpinning the approach are developed to provide an essential “systems background” as a foundation for the framework. The utility of the framework is discussed with respect toresults from an application in an organizational setting. The paper concludes with a discussion of the implications and limitations of the framework for development of systemic thinking and complex problem analysis.