About the Initiative for System Dynamics in the Public Sector

The Initiative for System Dynamics in the Public Sector is housed within the Center for Policy Research in the Rockefeller College of Public Affairs and Policy at the University at Albany. The Rockefeller College of Public Affairs and Policy offers a number of graduate and undergraduate courses in system dynamics modeling, specialization's in system dynamics modeling at the master’s and Ph.D. levels. In addition, faculty and staff at the University are leaders in the development of group model building, the development of formal system dynamics computer simulation models for government agencies and non-profits, and the training of government and non-profit employees in the concepts of system thinking.

 

Mission of the Initiative for System Dynamics in the Public Sector

The mission of The Initiative for System Dynamics in the Public Sector (Initiative) is two fold. First, the Initiative is dedicated to providing quality system dynamics models and modeling support to government, non-profits and businesses. We proudly develop close working relationships with our clients and strive to build understanding of system dynamics and system thinking principles within our client's organization. We feel that this understanding will develop a common ground for diverse parties to communicate with one another about important policies and problems. This philosophy also develops client confidence in the models developed to address their problems and/or policies. Second, the Initiative provides training in the form of workshops, the facilitation of learning games such as the Beer Game, Fish Banks, Ltd. and Stratagem. The goal of all these activities is to provide managers in government, non-profits and businesses with a systems perspective so that they can make better decisions.