How systems thinking can serve people in

Collective Impact Organizations

By definition collective impact is about bringing multiple sectors together with a shared agenda, using a coordinated strategy to achieve a significant, lasting impact that is greater than any one entity could do alone. Collective impact is made possible through common language, shared purpose and a clear picture of the desired results, all things that are better achieved using a systems thinking approach.

Systems Thinking in Action

There is an incredible synergy between systems thinking and collective impact. Waters Center provides facilitation for a number of efforts that bring different entities together to achieve a desired aim. A collaboration between community colleges and the local university produced an accessible, articulated academic pathway from associate degree to doctorate in early childhood education. The work was initiated and organized by a non-profit charged with improving professional learning for early childhood educators. They recognized the need and employed a systems approach to bring about a very major change.

Interested in learning more about systems thinking and the Waters Center's services?

Schedule a 15-minute inquiry call with a Waters Center staff member

or email us at info@waterscenterst.org

Outcomes

Outcomes that result from a collective impact process infused with systems thinking include:
  • Positive change on complex social issues
  • Aligning mental models around a shared result
  • Increased engagement
  • A better understanding of the actual problem
  • A more substantial impact than could be achieved by individual results alone
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