SD 554: Real World System Dynamics

In this course students tackle real-world issues working with real managers on their most pressing concerns. Many students choose to work on issues in their own organizations. Other students have select from a number of proposals put forward by managers from a variety of companies seeking a system dynamics approach to important issues. Students experience the joys (and frustrations) of helping people figure out how to better manage their organizations via system dynamics. Accordingly the course covers two important areas: consulting (i.e. helping managers) and the system dynamics standard method - a sequence of steps leading from a fuzzy “issue area” through increasing clarity and ultimately to solution recommendations. The course provides clear project pacing and lots of support from the instructors and fellow students. It is recommend that students take SD 552 Real World System Dynamics toward the end of their system dynamics coursework as it provides a natural transition from coursework to system dynamics practice.