Systems Map
A systems map shows how the parts of a system connect and influence each other, so students see knock-on effects before they design.
Advanced◷ 30–60 minFree · no login
What's connected to what, and what pushes on what?
How to use it + an example
How to use it
- 1List the parts of the system: people, objects, places and flows.
- 2Draw arrows for each influence and label what flows along it.
- 3Find the point where one change would help most and make it the design focus.
Example
Mapping the school's lost-property system shows items pile up because nobody checks the box, so a labelled-name system works better than a bigger box.
When to use it: For complex problems where changing one part affects others, such as sustainability or service projects (MYP Design Criterion A).
Define: Say exactly what you're solving.
Your turn ↓
Map the system
Map the ecosystem of your design: the parts, how they push on each other, and where the pushing circles back.
How it works
- Elements: all the parts and actors (people, tools, rules)
- Connections: how do they influence each other?
- Feedback loops: where does A → B → C → A? That's where a small change moves the whole system.
Look back. Which loop explains the most about your problem?
Try next
- Affinity DiagramGroup and organize ideas into natural clusters to find themes.Try it free →
- Five WhysDig to the root cause of a problem by asking "why?" five times.Try it free →
- Fishbone DiagramMap all possible causes of a problem in a structured visual.Try it free →
For teachers: Define stage · 30-60m. Free, no login. One of the 45 design thinking tools on StudioLoom, which also puts them inside lessons so students’ thinking is saved with their project.