15.875 | Spring 2004 | Graduate

Applications of System Dynamics

Course Description

15.875 is a project-based course that explores how organizations can use system dynamics to achieve important goals. In small groups, students learn modeling and consulting skills by working on a term-long project with real-life managers. A diverse set of businesses and organizations sponsor class projects, from …
15.875 is a project-based course that explores how organizations can use system dynamics to achieve important goals. In small groups, students learn modeling and consulting skills by working on a term-long project with real-life managers. A diverse set of businesses and organizations sponsor class projects, from start-ups to the Fortune 500. The course focuses on gaining practical insight from the system dynamics process, and appeals to people interested in system dynamics, consulting, or managerial policy-making.
Learning Resource Types
Lecture Notes
Projects with Examples
A pie chart dividing system dynamics into calibrating and insight.
System dynamics combines a “small” policy model and a “big” calibrated model. This course focuses on the “insight” portion of system dynamics. (Image courtesy of Prof. James Hines.)