System Dynamics Glossary
This is the System Dynamics Glossary compiled by David N. Ford and Accepted by Yaman Barlas. It was published on November 7th 2019 here: https://doi.org/10.1002/sdr.1641.
Introduction
As a narrowly focused dictionary, this glossary defines commonly used terms that are central to traditional system dynamics and some more general terms that have special meanings or particular importance within system dynamics. General terms that have no special meanings in system dynamics, application‐specific terms, and software‐specific terms are not included. The reader is referred to the relevant literature for those definitions, as well as detailed descriptions, explanations, and examples of the terms included here.
Click on the Concept to View the complete Description.
Concept | Description |
|---|---|
Systems thinking | The use of conceptual system models and other tools to improve the understanding of how the feedback, delays and decision‐making policies in a system's structure generate the system's behavior over time. Systems thinking does not use computer simulation. Systems thinking involves (i) seeing interrelationships and feedback loops instead of linear cause–effect chains, and (ii) seeking processes of change over time rather than events/snapshots. Systems thinking helps people see things on three levels events, patterns of behavior and system structure. |
S‐shaped growth | Growth that exhibits a behavior like a flat “S” shape. Values initially grow exponentially, then slow down and approach a maximum value. Endogenously caused S‐shaped growth is typically generated by a shift in loop dominance from a positive feedback structure to a negative feedback structure. |
Table function | A numeric table version of a graphical function. |
Time step | See solution interval. |
Transferable structure | See generic structure. |
Transient behavior | A dynamic response that does not persist. Temporary, short‐term behavior, typically between equilibrium conditions. |
Unintended consequence | An unplanned and typically undesirable side effect of well meaning intentions and actions, often occurring after a time delay and across an organizational boundary from the intended action. |
Unstable behavior | Behavior over time that does not converge to an equilibrium or remain within specified limits. |
Unstable equilibrium | A system structure and set of parameter values in which, if the system is moved away from the equilibrium condition, the system tends to move further away from it. Also see stable equilibrium. |
Vicious cycle | A reinforcing loop or amplifying structure that yields undesirable results. |
Virtuous cycle | A reinforcing loop or amplifying structure that yields desirable results. |
References
-
Argos Press. System dynamics applications: System dynamics glossary. Available: http://www.systemdynamicsapplications.com/glossary/ [4 September 2019]. Google Scholar
-
Doyle J, Ford DN. 1998. Mental model concepts for system dynamics research. System Dynamics Review 14( 1): 3– 29. Wiley Online Library Web of Science®Google Scholar
-
Lannon C. The vocabulary of systems thinking: A pocket guide. Systems thinker. Available: https://thesystemsthinker.com/the-vocabulary-of-systems-thinking-a-pocket-guide/ [4 September 2019]. Google Scholar
-
Road Maps Glossary. D‐memo D‐4498. Available: https://ocw.mit.edu/courses/sloan-school-of-management/15-988-system-dynamics-self-study-fall-1998-spring-1999/readings/glossary.pdf [4 September 2019]. Google Scholar
-
Sterman J. 2000. Business dynamics: systems thinking and modeling for a complex world. McGraw‐Hill: New York. Google Scholar
-
System Dynamics. Finding and resolving the root causes of the sustainability problem. Thwink.org. Available: https://www.thwink.org/sustain/glossary/SystemDynamics.htm [4 September 2019]. Google Scholar
-
Yearworth M. 2014. A brief introduction to system dynamics modeling. http://www.grounded.systems/wp-content/uploads/2015/02/SD-Introduction-MY-241014.pdfGoogle Scholar