Applying system dynamics and systems thinking methods to the development of robust workforce policies for the health and social care system in England

The Centre for Workforce Intelligence has developed a framework to inform workforce policies that take into account the uncertainty associated with the future. The framework is based on systems thinking principles and system dynamics simulation, and integrates horizon scanning, scenario generation and workforce modelling. The framework has been applied since 2012 to over 12 different workforce studies, representing over 2.5 million employees in the English health and social care system. This paper describes the framework and in particular how systems thinking and system dynamics simulation are used within the framework. The paper also provides two case studies illustrating the application in support of policy analysis. © 2016 Inderscience Enterprises Ltd.