Innovation problems are inherently complex. Solving problems at a global scale requires navigating multiple stakeholders with diverse perspectives and potentially opposing needs. Systems thinking is a holistic approach to analysis that focuses on the way that people and events interrelate and how they work within the context of larger systems.
Join Dr. Alex Ryan, Senior Systems Design Manager, Government of Alberta, and Rotman DesignWorks on November 10th from 6:15-9:15pm to learn how to see problems from different perspectives. Understand the value of systems thinking in developing innovative business solutions and practice techniques to develop a systems perspective.
In this session, you’ll learn:
1. The value of systems thinking in solving complex problems.
2. 3 techniques to develop a systems perspective.
3. How to apply systems thinking to your courses and work.
Open to all 2YR and 3YR students. Dr. Alex Ryan will lead the session.
Date: November 10th, 2014
Time: Sign-in starts at 6:00pm; Workshop is 6:15-9:15pm
Cost: $15/person covers the cost of materials and a light meal
Location: Room 142
Registration on the RWorld Event Registration site opens on, October 27th at 9:30pm! Spots are limited.
The cancellation and refund deadline is 3 days prior to the event.
Questions? Contact Alpesh Mistry at Alpesh.mistry@rotman.utoronto.ca
About the Instructor
Dr. Alex Ryan is a Senior Systems Design Manager with the Government of Alberta. He leads a cross-ministry systemic design and strategic foresight team working to institutionalize systems thinking, design and foresight within government policy and planning processes to address diverse issues such as environmental monitoring, resource management, stakeholder engagement, and early childhood development. Dr. Alex Ryan has previously taught operational and strategic design at the U.S. School of Advanced Military Studies, and helped to institutionalize design within Western militaries, working with clients such as U.S. Strategic Command, U.S. Special Operations Command, Australian Special Operations Command, and the Canadian Forces College. His dissertation in applied mathematics advanced a multidisciplinary approach to complex systems design.
The Rotman DesignWorks Sandbox Series is a collection of hands-on workshops, led by experienced practioners, which develop your core innovation skills and provide you with valuable learning experiences. Participation is added to your Professional Development transcript.
Rotman DesignWorks is the Business Design Studio at the Rotman School of Management. Our mission is to teach future business leaders the discipline of innovation through the practice of Business Design, a human-centred innovation methodology. Rotman DesignWorks offers educational opportunities to Rotman students in conjunction with the Business Design Club’s career preparation offerings.