Applying the Viable System Model Training

Who is this training for?

This training is for anyone who has an interest in applying the viable system model to a situation. You can be from any kind of background, as long as you have an interest in the subject matter.

What will I learn?

You will learn the basics of Stafford Beer’s viable system model. You will learn about the five sub-systems of the model and what their functions are. You will also learn how to apply the model to a real-world situation, learning what to look for and how to spot areas for potential improvement in a situation, based on a diagnosis using the model

Do I need prior knowledge of systems thinking or the viable system model?

You do not need any prior knowledge of the viable system model to attend this course. It does help if you have some knowledge of systems thinking but don’t worry if you don’t. Systems thinking is such a wide field that any key concepts etc will be explained throughout the session. It is important to do this because of the wide range of interpretations that exist.

What will the format of the training be?

There will be some element of presentation when explaining the model. The majority of the day, however, will be your practical application of the model to a given case study. You will undertake a diagnosis of a messy situation, using a number of ‘guides’ that you will be provided with to help you along. It will be a mixture of thinking about certain elements alone and in groups and you will be guided by the trainer throughout.

The case study will be a situation that the trainer has actually worked on. That way, she can share real insights as to how the model can be applied and what you can look for when trying to identify areas for improvement. The case study is from public services. This area has been chosen for its ‘messiness’ which gives opportunities to demonstrate areas for improvement in many places. You do not have to have experience of or a background in public services to understand the case study or undertake the diagnosis. In fact, it can sometimes help if you don’t know much about the situation in the case study.

Do I need to do any prior reading for the training?

No, prior reading is not required.

Do I need to bring anything with me on the day?

Just the usual pen and notebook, if you want to make notes and, of course, the willingness and enthusiasm to learn in a friendly and sharing environment.

Other FAQs

What are my transport/parking options for getting to and from the event?

The Bradbury Building is on Mark Lane in Leeds City Centre. It is located behind Sainsbury’s, next to the entrance to the St. John’s Shopping Centre.

Arriving on foot

Pedestrians can walk up Mark Lane from New Briggate or can walk through Dortmund Square outside the main entrance of the St. John’s Shopping Centre.

Arriving by car

There is no visitor parking at the Bradbury Building. Disabled parking bays for drivers with permits are located close by. Please see Car park document for nearby car parks.

Arriving by bike

Age UK Leeds is sorry but we cannot accommodate bikes in the building. There are bike stands close by.

Arriving by Train

Exit the station and walk up Park Row. At the junction at the top of Park Row turn right and walk up the Headrow. At the next main junction cross the road and head towards Sainsbury’s on the corner of Dortmund Square. Walk through the square towards the entrance of the St. John’s Shopping Centre and the Bradbury Building is in the corner on the right behind Sainsbury’s.

How can I contact the organiser with any questions?

Pauline can be contacted by email: pauline@systemspractitioner.com

What's the refund policy?

No refunds unless exceptional circumstances