instructions overview thinking in systems allows you to view problems
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INSTRUCTIONS
Overview
Thinking in systems allows you to view problems as parts of a whole and gives you a
tool set to address those problems. In this activity, you will use your knowledge of
systems thinking methodologies to analyze a scenario and map the relationships
between the parts of a system.
Prompt
To successfully complete this activity, address the following:
Define the following systems-thinking concepts in your own words:
Define systems thinking, providing an example of how this is used in the IT field.
Describe collections and how they are distinguished from systems.
Define feedback loop, providing an example of how this is used in the IT field.
Define stock and flow diagram, providing an example of how this is used in the IT
field.
Define casual loop diagram, providing an example of how this is used in the IT field.
The following scenario describes the system used for fulfilling an online order at Lost
Pines Outfitters, a medium-sized outdoor clothing store. Read this scenario and
create a basic map of the system using Microsoft Visio.
Lost Pines Outfitters (LPO) Online
When a customer places an order through LPO's online portal, the order is sent
directly to the warehouse, where an associate takes (pulls) the selected items from
warehouse shelves. Warehouse associates use a single computer to track incoming
orders, locate items in inventory, and pull inventory for fulfillment. Once LPO's
warehouse associates have pulled the items from inventory, they manually update
the inventory tracking system and the item is sent to the fulfilment department. In the
fulfillment department, associates package the items for delivery to customers and
assign the shipment a tracking number through the U.S. Postal Service. Once the
order has shipped, an associate in LPO's fulfillment department manually checks the
tracking information and updates the order's delivery status. Once the customer
receives the order, an associate sends a card, thanking them for their purchase and
requesting they leave a review of the item and their experience shopping with Lost
Pines Outfitters.
Once you have mapped this system, you will map relationships contained within the
system. First, identify relationships within your system diagram that represent
feedback loops, and represent those loops within your model. Then, identify a
relationship within the system that could be modeled with a stock and flow or causal
loop diagram, and model that diagram in Visio. Compose a brief, 250- to 500-word summary of the given system as well as the
interactions and relationships present in the system.
What to Submit
Upload a Word document that must include your written descriptions and your
diagram of the system.