sdlc.works alpha sdlc that works alpha
In partnership with SystemsWay School of Management and Leadership

Systems Thinking For Executives and Leaders

Master the art of seeing the bigger picture and making strategic decisions that create lasting organizational impact.

Duration: 4 Days
Delivery: In-person live

Course Overview

Why this course

Systems Thinking is the missing layer between strategy and execution. Without it, leaders unintentionally create structures, incentives, and processes that work against their own goals. This program helps you see how your organization really behaves as a system, so you can stop fighting fires and start designing conditions where high performance, quality, and learning emerge naturally.

What you'll learn

This intensive program is designed for senior executives and leaders who need to navigate complexity, understand interdependencies, and drive systemic change within their organizations. You'll move beyond linear thinking to develop a holistic perspective that enables better decision-making.

Identify System Patterns
Recognize feedback loops, delays, and leverage points in complex systems
Strategic Decision Making
Make decisions that account for long-term consequences and ripple effects
Mental Models
Challenge assumptions and develop new frameworks for understanding complexity
Organizational Change
Lead transformative change initiatives that stick
Cross-Functional Collaboration
Build bridges across silos and create shared understanding
Practical Tools
Apply systems thinking frameworks to real-world challenges

Curriculum

Course Modules

0
Pre-Course
Pre-Read Material
  • Introduction to Systems Thinking: Key Concepts and History
  • Reading: 'The Fifth Discipline' by Peter Senge (Selected Chapters)
  • Case Study: The Beer Game - Understanding System Delays
  • Video: Donella Meadows on Leverage Points in Systems
  • Self-Assessment: Your Current Mental Models and Assumptions
  • Pre-Course Survey: Organizational Challenges You're Facing
1
Day 1
Foundations of Systems Thinking
  • Introduction to systems theory and complexity
  • Linear vs. systems thinking mindsets
  • Identifying system boundaries and stakeholders
  • Case study: Organizational systems in action
2
Day 2
System Dynamics and Patterns
  • Feedback loops: reinforcing and balancing
  • Understanding delays and unintended consequences
  • Stock and flow diagrams
  • Workshop: Mapping your organization's systems
3
Day 3
Leverage Points and Intervention Strategies
  • Finding high-leverage intervention points
  • Mental models and paradigm shifts
  • Resistance to change in complex systems
  • Designing effective interventions
4
Day 4
Leading Systemic Change
  • Change management through a systems lens
  • Building adaptive organizations
  • Communication and stakeholder alignment
  • Capstone project: Systems change proposal

Meet Your Instructor

Manish Jain

Founder and CEO, SDLC.Works | Creator, SystemsWay School of Leadership and Management

Manish Jain is an Applied Organizational Theorist driven by one haunting question: Why do people design systems in which they themselves suffer? His search for answers revealed a shocking truth: while every methodology sold to corporations is based on Systems Thinking, everyone sells methodology but not the thinking that should go along with it. His journey began with a simple yet profound question: Why do people suffer in systems they themselves have created? The inquiry extended to why employees complain about workplace systems they helped develop, and why citizens are dissatisfied with their country's systems. Despite having the power to fix these systems, people often experience issues like poor quality, low productivity, and failed projects — almost as if sabotaged by outsiders. Manish realized the root lies in a fundamental misunderstanding of how systems work. People instinctively create systems but often fail to understand their dynamics. He established SystemsWay to help people learn how to design, operate, and manage the systems they are a part of.

Frequently Asked Questions

Have questions? Find answers to common inquiries about the course.

Common Questions

Who is this course designed for?
This course is designed for C-suite executives, senior leaders, directors, and managers who need to navigate organizational complexity, drive strategic initiatives, and lead transformative change. It's ideal for those responsible for cross-functional teams and enterprise-wide decision-making.
What are the prerequisites for this course?
There are no formal prerequisites, though participants should have at least 5-7 years of leadership experience. A genuine interest in understanding complexity and improving organizational effectiveness is essential. The course welcomes leaders from all industries and sectors.
Is the course offered online or in-person?
This is an in-person live course designed to maximize interaction, networking, and hands-on learning. The intimate setting allows for deep discussion, peer learning, and real-time feedback from the instructor and fellow participants.
What is the time commitment?
The course runs for 8 weeks with sessions typically held once per week. You should expect to dedicate 4-6 hours per week, including class time, readings, group work, and individual reflection. The schedule is designed to accommodate busy executive calendars.
Will I receive a certificate upon completion?
Yes, participants who complete all course requirements will receive a certificate of completion. This includes attending all sessions, participating in group discussions, and completing the capstone project.
Can I apply the concepts to my current challenges?
Absolutely! The course is highly practical and application-focused. You'll have opportunities to work on real challenges from your organization throughout the program. The capstone project is specifically designed around a systems change initiative relevant to your work.
What is the cohort size?
We keep cohorts small (maximum 25 participants) to ensure personalized attention, rich discussion, and strong peer connections. This intimate setting allows for deeper learning and networking.
What is the tuition for this course?
Please click the 'Express Interest' button or 'Ask Question' to receive detailed information about tuition, payment options, and any early bird or group discounts that may be available.

Still have questions? We're here to help!

Reach out and we'll follow up with course details and answers.

SDLC.works courses are transformative and it reflects in each and every

testimonials

we receive.