Systeemdynamisch

Systeemdynamisch is a Dutch term that translates to "system dynamics" in English. It is a methodology and framework for understanding and managing complex systems. System dynamics focuses on how the structure of a system, particularly its feedback loops and time delays, influences its behavior over time. By mapping out these relationships, system dynamics allows for the simulation and analysis of system dynamics, helping to identify potential unintended consequences of decisions and explore different policy interventions.

The core of system dynamics lies in the creation of causal loop diagrams and stock and flow diagrams. Causal loop diagrams visually represent the cause-and-effect relationships within a system, highlighting feedback loops that can either amplify or dampen changes. Stock and flow diagrams quantify these relationships, showing how accumulations (stocks) change over time due to flows in and out. These models are often implemented using computer simulations, enabling the exploration of various scenarios and the testing of hypotheses about system behavior.

Applications of system dynamics are broad, spanning fields such as business management, environmental science, public policy, and social sciences. It is used to model population growth, urban development, economic fluctuations, and the spread of diseases, among other complex phenomena. The goal is to gain insights into the underlying structures that drive system behavior, enabling more effective and sustainable decision-making in the face of complexity and uncertainty.