How can we become Behavioral Systems Thinkers?
I pose this question because one of the things we have been adding to our work with our clients is Behavioral Systems Mapping.
This graphic by the Waters Foundation has a nice list of activities that can help you become a systems thinker, which I wanted to share with you all.
Some of the things they mention:
-Recognizes that a systems structure generates its behaviors -Seeks to understand the big picture -Changes perspectives to increase understanding -Considers how mental models affect current reality and future -Considers an issue fully and resists the urge to come to a quick conclusion -Considers unintended consequences
Why does this matter for creating better experiences?
It matters because in most cases behaviors don't happen in isolation, they are part of a system and within that system, you will have different actors, drivers, and relationships. More specifically, with Behavioral Systems Mapping you can:
1)Identify and find the actors 2) Map Behavior(s) for each of the actors 2)Define the drivers using a behavioral model 3)Find relationships 4) Find target areas that can be used to zoom in and design on 5)See how the new solutions change or influence the system
When integrating Behavioral Science, make sure you go beyond the individual and look at the system as well, you will be surprised how much this will help you!