Systems Thinking

The Center for Community Resilience uses systems thinking and systems science methods to identify sustainable solutions that address root causes of adversity in communities. The tools on this page can help you and your coalition learn how to approach problems with a systems lens. 

Tools and Resources

What's in the Soil? 

"What's in the Soil?" explains why systems thinking and addressing root causes are essential for building communities in which all can thrive. 

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This image shows two approaches to identifying root causes: linear and interconnected causal chains

Root Cause Analysis: Identifying Structural Drivers of Adversity

Root Cause Analysis (RCA) is a method of exploring the underlying causes of adversity in a community. This tool guides users in using the Iceberg Model to uncover structural drivers below the surface of a problem.

Root Cause Analysis (PDF) 

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This image shows a crowbar moving a rock using a leverage point and creating ripple effects

Systems Theory of Change

A Systems Theory of Change outlines how intervention strategies can change the behavior of a system. This tool guides users in mapping how interventions can influence goal behavior and create unintended consequences. 

Systems Theory of Change (PDF)