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Systems Thinking & Complexity

Feedback Loops & System Dynamics

Level: advancedModel #13
informationfeedback
Description

Feedback loops are the fundamental mechanisms that create persistent system behavior. Reinforcing loops amplify change exponentially—more leads to more. Balancing loops resist change and seek equilibrium—deviation triggers correction. When one loop dominates, it determines the entire system's trajectory regardless of other forces present.

Applications
Add information flows to create new feedback loops. Missing information prevents effective feedback. People shown their power consumption in real-time use less electricity. Visibility creates awareness, which creates new balancing loops that improve behavior.
Strengthen balancing loops or weaken reinforcing loops to change behavior. When systems run away exponentially, either reduce the reinforcing gain or add stronger balancing mechanisms. Both work, but have different side effects.
Match response time to system dynamics. If stock levels take weeks to adjust but you're reacting daily, you're chasing noise. If adjustment takes hours but you check monthly, problems compound. Align feedback timing with actual flow rates.
Remember that information holds systems together. Many interconnections operate through information flow, not physical connections. The quality and timeliness of information determines how well feedback loops function.
Referenced in the brief

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