System Dynamics Flashcards
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What is System Dynamics?
A methodology and mathematical modeling technique for understanding and analyzing complex systems over time, using stocks, flows, feedback loops, and time delays.
Who developed System Dynamics?
Jay Forrester at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) in the 1950s.
What is a feedback loop in System Dynamics?
A circular process where the output of a system influences its input, either enhancing (positive feedback) or balancing (negative feedback) system behavior.
What is a causal loop diagram?
A visual representation of a system, showing components and their interconnections through feedback loops.
What are stocks in System Dynamics?
Quantities that accumulate over time and represent the state of the system.
What are flows in System Dynamics?
Rates of change that add to or subtract from stocks in a system over time.
What is the purpose of a stock and flow diagram?
To quantify and analyze the dynamics of a system, showing how stocks change through inflows and outflows.
What is an example of a system dynamics model?
The ‘Limits to Growth’ model, which forecasts the impact of exponential growth on resources and environment.
What is the difference between positive and negative feedback?
Positive feedback amplifies changes, leading to growth or decline, while negative feedback stabilizes the system by counteracting changes.
What is the importance of time delays in System Dynamics?
They introduce lags between actions and effects, influencing system behavior and potential for oscillations.
What is a dynamic simulation in System Dynamics?
A computational tool used to simulate the behavior of a system over time, allowing for policy testing and scenario analysis.
What is the relevance of System Dynamics to policy analysis?
It helps understand complex systems’ behavior, aiding in the design of effective policies by simulating their potential impacts.
What is a common application of System Dynamics in business?
Analyzing and managing supply chains, market dynamics, and corporate strategy.
What is the ‘Urban Dynamics’ model?
A system dynamics model developed by Jay Forrester to understand and solve urban development issues.
What role do equations play in System Dynamics?
They define relationships between variables and drive the simulation of system behavior over time.
What is a common software used for System Dynamics?
Tools like Vensim, Stella, and AnyLogic are often used to build and simulate system dynamics models.
What is meant by ‘nonlinear behavior’ in System Dynamics?
System behavior that cannot be described by a simple straight-line relationship, often leading to complex dynamics like oscillations and chaos.
What is a ‘dynamic hypothesis’ in System Dynamics?
A theory about the structure and behavior of a system that guides model development and testing.
What is a ‘mental model’ in the context of System Dynamics?
An individual’s internal representation of how a system works, which may influence decision-making and policy design.
What is an example of using System Dynamics in public policy?
Modeling the impact of public health interventions on disease spread and healthcare resource management.
