Research Report
Glossary: 15.871 Introduction to System Dynamics - Assignment 5: Integrating Systems Thinking and Strategy
- Author
- Aziz Shuaib Ausi
- Published
- 31 July 2026
- Last updated
- 8 August 2026
- Reading time
- 2 min
- Publication type
- Research Report
- Availability
- Restricted access
Derived from an academic source (private repository).
Sterman, J. (2013). 15.871 Introduction to System Dynamics - Assignment 5: Integrating Systems Thinking and Strategy. MIT OpenCourseWare. Sloan School of Management.
Terminology in System Dynamics and Strategic Analysis
The following glossary defines key terms and conceptual tools utilized in the study of organizational behavior and systems thinking, specifically within the context of the People Express case study. These definitions are adapted from the pedagogical frameworks established by John Sterman at MIT.
| Term | Definition |
|---|---|
| Aggregation | The process of grouping complex organizational variables or data points into simplified categories to make simulated models more manageable for study. |
| Causal Loop Diagram | A visual mapping tool used to illustrate how different variables in a business system interact through reinforcing or balancing feedback mechanisms. |
| Customer Service Managers (CSMs) | A specific personnel role characterized by job rotation, where employees alternate between tasks such as flight service, reservations, and accounting to maximize versatility. |
| Dynamic Hypothesis | A conceptual explanation or "working theory" regarding the underlying feedback structures that drive specific patterns of behavior within a system. |
| Feedback Polarity | The designation of a feedback loop as either reinforcing (amplifying change) or balancing (opposing change) based on the nature of the internal relationships. |
| Management Flight Simulator | An interactive computer model designed to let users experiment with strategic decisions, such as hiring and pricing, to observe long-term outcomes in a risk-free environment. |
| No-frills Service | A business strategy focusing on cost reduction by eliminating non-essential amenities, typically utilized to offer lower prices than full-service competitors. |
| Reference Mode | A graphical representation, often a line chart, that displays the historical trends of critical variables to identify qualitative patterns over a set period. |
| Stock and Flow Structure | The fundamental mathematical framework of a system that tracks the accumulation (stocks) and the movement (flows) of resources, such as employees or aircraft. |
| Systems Thinking | A holistic analytical approach that identifies how the internal structure of an organization and its feedback loops determine its overall performance and survival. |
Source
Authors: Sterman, J. Year: 2013 Journal: MIT OpenCourseWare DOI: N/A
Full APA-7 Citation: Sterman, J. (2013). 15.871 Introduction to System Dynamics - Assignment 5: Integrating Systems Thinking and Strategy. MIT OpenCourseWare. Sloan School of Management.
Related intelligence and resources
Previous
Research Method Notes: 15.871 Introduction to System Dynamics - Assignment 5: Integrating Systems Thinking and Strategy
Next
Reflection Questions: 15.871 Introduction to System Dynamics - Assignment 5: Integrating Systems Thinking and Strategy
Practical Applications: Systems thinking as a platform for leadership performance in a complex world
Research Report
Practical Applications: Modeling Product Adoption and Diffusion: The VCR Market
Research Report
Discussion Questions: Modeling Product Adoption and Diffusion: The VCR Market
Research Report
Research Gap Analysis: Mapping the Stock and Flow Structure of Systems
Research Report
Policy Insights: Mapping the Stock and Flow Structure of Systems
Research Report
Practical Applications: Mapping the Stock and Flow Structure of Systems
Research Report
Citation
Cite this publication (APA 7)
Aziz Shuaib Ausi (2026). Glossary: 15.871 Introduction to System Dynamics - Assignment 5: Integrating Systems Thinking and Strategy. Research Report. Aziz Shuaib Ausi. https://www.azizshuaib.com/verify/ACADEMIC_DERIVED-2026-00043
Verification
This is an authenticated AZIZ OS resource record.
- Verification ID
- ACADEMIC_DERIVED-2026-00043
- Version
- v1.0 · r0
- Issued
- 31 July 2026
- Publisher
- Aziz Shuaib Ausi
- Licence
- All rights reserved. Reproduction requires written permission.
This verification confirms the AZIZ OS publication record and its provenance.