Explore competencies, concepts and tools for working effectively in complex socio-technical systems in the built environment.
Systems thinking is an approach to understanding and working with complexity. It focuses on how parts of a system interrelate and how systems work over time within the context of larger systems. In the built environment, systems thinking helps professionals navigate interdependencies between infrastructure, communities, policy and the natural environment.
As infrastructure and urban systems grow more complex, professionals need specific competencies to understand system behaviour, design effective interventions and adapt to changing conditions. This framework identifies ten core competencies across three layers: Seeing, Doing and Being.
This competency framework is built on a structured review of established competency frameworks, educational standards, professional body requirements, government toolkits and academic research. Each competency can be traced back to one or more recognised sources. View the full sources and methodology.
Browse the ten core systems thinking competencies and understand what each one involves.
Discover the key systems thinking concepts that underpin the competency framework.
Explore practical tools and methods used to apply systems thinking in practice.
See which competencies are priorities for different professional roles.
Rate your own capabilities and get a personalised competency profile.