Question

How to apply system thinking approach within descriptive and prescriptive leadership model in health care organization?

Answer 1

Systems thinking is an approach to integration that is based on the belief of the component parts of a system will act differently when isolated from the system's environment or other parts of the system.

Prescriptive leadership strategies typically suggest applying the same formulas and techniques to every situation. This shows you have the capacity to operate in a consistent manner. Descriptive strategic managers care more about what the managers decide rather than how they decide it. They are concerned with the bounded way in which the decisions are actually made.

Systems thinking centers on the dynamic interaction, synchronization, and integration of people, processes, and technology. By gaining an understanding of the dynamics among people, processes, and technology, systems thinking aids in recognizing how to intervene (e.g., focusing on changes to device design, clinician training) in the system successfully. Moreover, systems thinking helps identify the critical relationships and connections often missed or undervalued that are pivotal to a successful implementation effort.

Five Ways to Incorporate Systems Thinking into Healthcare Organizations

1. Apply a Holistic Approach to Solving Problems

2. Define Approaches to Evaluating and Understanding System-Wide Effects

3. Identify and Nurture Great Systems Thinkers

4. Apply a Proactive Approach To Identify Leverage Points

5. Create a Culture of Systems Thinking