Let’s Get Loopy - Systems Thinking (Double and Triple Loop Thinking and Root Cause Analysis)

This programme is aimed at providing participants with an understanding of the main concepts of systems thinking as well as double and triple loop thinking. People often think in terms of linear cause and effect, but in reality, outcomes are often the result of complex systems. This is often the symptom, and not the cause of the problem.  Consider taking a pill like Aspirin or Panadol when you have a headache. The “problem” appears to be solved, but in reality, it is only the symptom (the headache) that is addressed. The problem is what actually caused the headache. 

Systems Thinking attempts to get to the root of the problem – Root Cause Analysis. If the root case is resolved, the problem is solved – often permanently. Participants will learn this technique and have the opportunity to practice it. 

Participants are introduced to the basic concept of systems thinking and taught basic techniques for identifying these systems and how the various parts of a system may interact with each other. Each of these can affect the outcome, but often, we tend to look for obvious problems. This is where double-loop and triple loop thinking come in. By the end of the session, participants will be equipped with the skills for root cause analysis and triple loop thinking as part of recognising the complexity of systems

Upon completion of the course, learners will be able to:

• Understand the fundamental concept of what constitutes a system
• Develop and appreciation of root cause analysis
• Recognise the limitations of single loop thinking
• Practice applying double and triple loop thinking

Learning Methodology

• Presentation
• Group Activities 
• Exercises
• Discussion
• Hands-on practice

• All Levels of Management
• People Managers
• Team Leaders
• Supervisors
• HR Professionals
• Anyone that works in or leads a team

The program is extremely relevant to, but not limited to, supervisors and managers, especially those faced with dynamic work environments where a variety of issues constantly need to be addressed. 

Anybody who is interested in developing solutions or generating new ideas. The tools and techniques are generic and can apply to all aspects of life, but would be extremely beneficial for those charged with leading teams to develop solutions or design new products/techniques/systems.

"He took the time to explain to us passionately and could see that he is actually very knowledgeable. The course helps to open your eyes to new dimensions to problem-solving." Saravanan, Manager, MOH

"Engaging and simplifies concepts well to convey easily to the laymen. Fishbone diagram and 5 Whys are useful." Sheryl, Senior Executive, NIEC

"He balances theory and application. I benefited from the course in learning how individual parts affect each other." Jian Han, Manager, CPF

"Trainer was able to keep trainees interested in what he was sharing. I find that the perspectives of seeing how root cause analysis can be used within systems thinking is the most useful section." Hyrza, Manager, MOH

ACTA, 6Seconds Emotional Intelligence Trainer/Coach, ENNEAGRAM Personality Spectrum Trainer/Coach, Marshall Goldsmith Certified Coach

With a background as a military officer, sales executive. advertising executive/copywriter, senior corporate management, government service, training, emceeing and acting, Sean O’Hara has done it all and seen it all.

Prominent organisations he has worked with include the Ministry of Defence, Singapore General Hospital, Immigration and Checkpoints Authority, National Environment Agency, Club 21, CPF Board, as well as audiences & groups from Africa, Europe and the US.

With over 20 years experience conducting, facilitating and administering training programmes, Sean is comfortable working with groups and individuals from all walks of life at across all socio-cultural sphere. He is an engaging and charismatic facilitator that knows how to keep energy levels high and participants involved.

After a six year career as a Guards Officer in the Singapore Army, he eventually joined the US Embassy where he managed the training programmes for Singapore & Brunei. In 2011, he expanded his repertoire to include facilitation and coaching after getting various certifications. He also went into consultancy work was engaged by a local family business as the consultant GM to bring the company to public listing; a task achieved in just over two years.

This experience alone qualifies him as a knowledgeable and experienced facilitator at the corporate level across virtually all functions of the organisation. On top of all this, he is a university lecturer focusing on a myriad of management and behavioural courses at the undergraduate and postgraduate levels, allowing him to contextualise real world experiences into management theory.

Having worked with students, blue collar workers executives and senior leadership as well as Ambassadors and senior government officials from three governments, his approach is to engage learners at a level they are comfortable with and accustomed to and to develop empathy for others in the organisation to see things through different lenses.

He has appeared in several sitcoms and TV dramas and is hence a bit of a showman who knows the nuances of entertainment to make learning fun even at the expense of laughing at himself!