Defining complex problems in organization using group model-building and system archetypes

One of the most important things upon the start of a system dynamics (SD) research project is to gain a solid understanding of the research problem. Once and again, experts in SD emphasize the necessity to model the problem, not the system. Yet, sometimes, even the clients do not know exactly what their problem is. They have a vague feeling of fear or worry. Under such circumstance how could we effectively identify the problem? In this paper, we would like to share some of our experience. In a recently started research project, we used group model building workshop and developed several system archetypes. The group model-building workshop helps us to articulate the problem and the system archetypes point out the specific unintended consequences, which serve as guidelines for future modeling work. Given these two tools, we had a smooth and efficient start up.