D459: Introduction to Systems Thinking and Applications - Task 1
Applying Systems Thinking Basics
012328531
Annette Velarde
July 9, 2026
A1. Identification Using the Iceberg Tool (Case Study #1)
Page 1
, D459: Introduction to Systems Thinking and Applications - Task 1
Key Events
Several key events contributed to the challenges experienced by Wilde's Bramble:
● Alder and Calla Wilde started a successful organic farming business.
● Demand for their products increased as farmers' markets, restaurants, and
local stores began purchasing their products.
● The company expanded by leasing additional farmland and purchasing more
equipment.
● To finance expansion, the owners relied heavily on credit cards and
eventually took out a mortgage on the farm.
● Calla accepted an off-farm job to generate additional income.
● The business experienced increasing financial pressure as debt and finance
charges continued to grow.
Key Patterns
Several recurring patterns become apparent throughout the case study:
● First, customer demand consistently increased, encouraging continued
business growth.
● Second, each increase in production required additional spending on land,
equipment, facilities, and operating expenses.
● Third, instead of expansion being funded through business profits, the Wildes
repeatedly relied on borrowed money. As debt accumulated, interest
payments increased, creating even greater financial strain. This resulted in a
cycle where additional borrowing temporarily solved immediate cash-flow
problems while making the long-term financial situation worse.
Underlying Structure
The underlying structure of the system is the company's dependence on debt-
financed growth:
Page 2
Applying Systems Thinking Basics
012328531
Annette Velarde
July 9, 2026
A1. Identification Using the Iceberg Tool (Case Study #1)
Page 1
, D459: Introduction to Systems Thinking and Applications - Task 1
Key Events
Several key events contributed to the challenges experienced by Wilde's Bramble:
● Alder and Calla Wilde started a successful organic farming business.
● Demand for their products increased as farmers' markets, restaurants, and
local stores began purchasing their products.
● The company expanded by leasing additional farmland and purchasing more
equipment.
● To finance expansion, the owners relied heavily on credit cards and
eventually took out a mortgage on the farm.
● Calla accepted an off-farm job to generate additional income.
● The business experienced increasing financial pressure as debt and finance
charges continued to grow.
Key Patterns
Several recurring patterns become apparent throughout the case study:
● First, customer demand consistently increased, encouraging continued
business growth.
● Second, each increase in production required additional spending on land,
equipment, facilities, and operating expenses.
● Third, instead of expansion being funded through business profits, the Wildes
repeatedly relied on borrowed money. As debt accumulated, interest
payments increased, creating even greater financial strain. This resulted in a
cycle where additional borrowing temporarily solved immediate cash-flow
problems while making the long-term financial situation worse.
Underlying Structure
The underlying structure of the system is the company's dependence on debt-
financed growth:
Page 2
