Blog Archives

The AI takes a deep dive into a book that serves as an instructional guide to systems thinking, a holistic methodology designed to address the complex, interconnected challenges of the modern world. The authour, Wallace Wright argues against linear, mechanistic problem-solving, encouraging readers instead to view organizations and global issues as dynamic feedback loops. By examining the underlying structures and patterns which exist beneath surface-level events—frequently illustrated through the iceberg analogy—individuals can identify the root causes of dysfunction. The book details … Continue reading →

The AI team takes a deep dive into a text which introduces systems science as an interdisciplinary framework designed to bridge the gap between specialized academic “silos” such as biology, physics, and engineering. Written by Avner Engel, the book Systems Science for Engineers and Scholars outlines ten fundamental principles—including hierarchy, complexity, and emergence—that govern all systems regardless of their specific domain. It encourages professionals to adopt holistic thinking to solve modern global dilemmas, such as the climate and energy crises, by applying lessons … Continue reading →

Our AI team takes a deep dive into a presentation made to the INCOSE Chesapeake chapter in July 2022. The presentation/paper explores the creation of a postgraduate systems engineering course designed to cultivate “outstanding” systems engineers. The study employs a systems approach, analyzing various pedagogical methods and identifying key skills and knowledge requirements. It introduces a framework categorizing systems engineers into five types based on their problem-solving abilities and proposes a competency model for assessment. … Continue reading →

The AI team take a deep dive into Dr. Joseph Kasser’s “Conceptual Laws and Customs of Christmas” which satirically explores Christmas traditions through a Talmudic lens, presenting imaginary laws and customs governing Christmas preparations, the tree, decorations, gift-giving, office parties, and festive meals.  The book meticulously mimics the style of the Talmud, presenting “laws” followed by numbered commentaries exploring their rationale and potential variations. This creates a humorous effect by applying the rigor of Jewish legal … Continue reading →

The AI team take a deep dive into a unique lifelong learning course on problem-solving, emphasizing systems thinking and a holistic approach. The curriculum covers various thinking styles (systems, critical, and holistic), problem identification and classification, decision-making tools, and the application of these concepts to project management, systems engineering, and risk management. Multiple learning resources are used, including lectures, readings from several books by Dr Kasser, and practical exercises. The course aims to improve participants’ problem-solving skills and equip them to … Continue reading →