The Trap of Easy Solutions: A Systems Archetype Workshop
Many sustainability challenges in IT don’t fail because of a lack of technology, but because we rely on solutions that relieve symptoms while leaving the underlying problem untouched.
In this interactive workshop, we introduce system archetypes—common feedback structures that explain why well-meant actions can create dependency on quick fixes over time. Using a simple causal loop lens, we will explore the archetype “Shifting the Burden” and practice applying it to real sustainable IT challenges (e.g. over-reliance on optimization tools, efficiency without demand reduction, reporting without structural change).
The goal is not to turn you into a systems modeler, but to give you a practical mental tool: a way to recognize when a solution is masking a deeper issue, ask better questions, and avoid building long-term dependency on short-term relief.
No prior systems thinking experience required.
This workshop is facilitated by Sabrina Hsieh and Siddhesh Wagle.
What The Workshop Is About
Causal Loop Basics
System Archetype Introduction: Shifting the Burden
Archetype Practice & Discussion
Reflection & Everyday Use
What You’ll Take Away
A clear understanding of one core system archetype
The ability to spot early signals of dependency on quick fixes
A reusable framework to distinguish symptom relief vs root cause action
A shared language to discuss complexity with non-experts