Certified Systems Thinking Project Manager (CSTPM™)

Certified Systems Thinking Project Manager (CSTPM™)

Length: 2 Days

This two-day course equips project managers with systems thinking approaches to manage complex projects effectively. Participants will learn to see the big picture, understand interdependencies, and leverage systematic insights to make informed decisions, thus enhancing project outcomes.

Learning Objectives:

  • Understand the fundamental principles of systems thinking and their application to project management.
  • Analyze project environments to identify interconnected components and their impacts.
  • Apply systems thinking tools to plan, execute, and manage projects with enhanced foresight and adaptability.
  • Evaluate the effectiveness of project decisions using systems thinking methodologies.

Target Audience: Project managers, team leaders, and professionals in project coordination roles across industries looking to enhance their strategic management skills.

Course Content:

Module 1: Introduction to Systems Thinking

  • Understanding Systems Theory
  • Principles of Systems Thinking
  • Importance of Systems Thinking in Project Management
  • Systems Thinking vs. Linear Thinking
  • Systems Archetypes and Patterns
  • Ethical Considerations in Systems Thinking

Module 2: Mapping Complex Systems in Project Management

  • System Boundary Definition
  • Identifying System Components and Interconnections
  • Feedback Loops and Causal Loop Diagrams
  • Stakeholder Analysis in System Mapping
  • Dynamic Modeling Techniques
  • Visualizing Complex Systems with System Maps

Module 3: Tools and Techniques for Systems Analysis

  • Root Cause Analysis
  • Influence Diagrams
  • System Dynamics Simulation
  • Scenario Planning and Sensitivity Analysis
  • SWOT Analysis in Systems Thinking
  • Group Model Building Techniques

Module 4: Case Studies: Systems Thinking in Project Success

  • Healthcare System Optimization Case Study
  • Urban Development Project Case Study
  • Environmental Conservation Initiative Case Study
  • Supply Chain Management Case Study
  • IT Project Implementation Case Study
  • Lessons Learned and Best Practices from Case Studies

Module 5: Hands-On Workshop: Applying Systems Thinking to Your Projects

  • Identifying Projects Suitable for Systems Thinking
  • Gathering Data and Information for Systems Analysis
  • Collaborative Problem-Solving Techniques
  • Building System Dynamics Models
  • Developing Action Plans Based on Systems Thinking
  • Monitoring and Evaluating Project Performance with Systems Thinking

Exam Domains:

  1. Systems Thinking Fundamentals
    • Understanding systems concepts
    • Identifying system boundaries and components
    • Recognizing feedback loops and system dynamics
  2. Project Management Principles
    • Project initiation and planning
    • Project execution and control
    • Project closure and evaluation
  3. Integration of Systems Thinking and Project Management
    • Applying systems thinking in project planning
    • Managing complexity and uncertainty in projects
    • Utilizing systems thinking tools in project management
  4. Problem-solving and Decision-making
    • Analyzing complex problems using systems thinking
    • Developing innovative solutions through systems approaches
    • Making effective decisions in dynamic project environments

Question Types:

  1. Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs):
    • Assess understanding of key concepts and definitions.
    • Example: Which of the following is a characteristic of a closed-loop system?
      • A) Linear cause-effect relationships
      • B) Continuous input from the environment
      • C) Rapid response to changes
      • D) Feedback mechanisms
  2. Scenario-based Questions:
    • Present real-world project scenarios requiring systems thinking analysis and decision-making.
    • Example: You are managing a software development project where requirements keep changing due to evolving customer needs. How would you apply systems thinking principles to adapt to these changes and ensure project success?
  3. Case Studies:
    • Analyze and solve project management problems within the context of a detailed case study.
    • Example: Given a case study of a construction project facing schedule delays and budget overruns, identify systemic issues contributing to these challenges and propose strategies for resolution.
  4. Critical Thinking Essays:
    • Evaluate the candidate’s ability to critically analyze and synthesize information related to systems thinking and project management.
    • Example: Discuss the importance of integrating systems thinking principles into project management practices and provide examples of how this integration can enhance project outcomes.

Passing Criteria:

  • Minimum Passing Score: 70%
  • Candidates must demonstrate proficiency across all exam domains.
  • A combination of MCQs, scenario-based questions, case studies, and critical thinking essays ensures a comprehensive assessment of knowledge and skills.
  • Candidates must effectively apply systems thinking principles to project management scenarios and demonstrate the ability to analyze complex problems and make informed decisions.