C · SystemsAdvanced35 min read
8. Systems thinking & second-order effects
Problem Solving · 36 pages source format
Every fix has side effects. "We added retries" → "now we mask real failures." Map feedback loops before committing.
What you'll learn
- Feedback loops
- Second-order effects
- Unintended consequences
Second-order brainstorm
For a proposed fix, ask "and then what?" three times.
Do this now
Apply to one current proposal at work.
Clear?
Causal loop sketch
Draw arrows: A affects B affects C affects A. Find the loop.
Do this now
Sketch one feedback loop in your team's process.
Clear?