Organizational systems thinking is a holistic approach to understanding and managing an organization by recognizing the complex network of interconnected elements at play, internally and externally. This impactful technique enables people to predict the consequences of a potential change. Organizational systems thinking leads to enhanced decision making, improved problem solving and identifying root causes, increased cross-functional collaboration, leadership development, and greater adaptability by considering the bigger picture.
This eight-week series introduces participants to organizational systems thinking. Using current concepts and models to examine their own organizations and projects, participants will develop capacities to perceive, understand and facilitate change in public health organizations.
Learning Objectives
Learners in this series will:
- Describe and map their public health organizations as systems
- Improve communication and group dynamics in group systems
- Understand and practice methods that encourage innovation and creativity in organizational systems
- Explain and demonstrate how to encourage learning for change in organizational systems
- Identify at least three principles of organizational change and understand how to apply them
Instructor
Mary Kay Chess, PhD
Public Health Management Certificate Faculty
Intended Audience
Organizational Systems is designed for public health professionals who want to understand system complexities and analyze dynamic environments. It is meant to be a highly interactive learning opportunity. This training is designed for local, state, and tribal public health professionals.
Format
This live training will be offered via Zoom, Thursdays April 24 - June 12, 2025 (9:00 am – 10:30 am Pacific).
Cost
This training is supported, in part, by the Public Health Infrastructure Grant and is currently available at a reduced cost. The price is $400 per person.
Registration Deadline
Registration will close on April 1, 2025, or when capacity is reached.
Time Commitment
Eight, 90-minute sessions. Resources will be provided for participants, but there is no required homework or projects for this course.
Technical Requirements
This learning opportunity requires the following:
- Install the Zoom meeting client before the first session.
- Webcam, speakers/headphones, and microphone are needed for the live sessions. Please be prepared to be on camera for group discussions.
Diversity Statement
Diverse backgrounds, embodiments, and experiences are essential to the critical thinking endeavor at the heart of education. NWCPHP brings this principle to our programs and trainings. As such, participants are expected:
- To respect individual differences, which may include, but are not limited to, age, cultural background, disability, ethnicity, family status, gender, immigration status, national origin, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, socioeconomic status, and veteran status.
- To engage respectfully in the discussion of diverse worldviews and ideologies embedded in readings, presentations, and artifacts, including materials that are at odds with personal beliefs and values.
- To talk to the instructor or program manager if they have concerns about the program climate.
Accessibility
This training includes live learning sessions where closed captions will be automatically generated. If you need additional accommodations in order to participate, contact Christine Ector, and we will do our best to make sure the content is accessible to you.
Continuing Education Credits
Certified in Public Health (CPH) recertification credits may be earned by participating in this training. Visit the National Board of Public Health Examiners to learn more.
Questions
For more information, contact Christine Ector.
