1
WMM1 D372 Introduction to systems thinking (TASK 3: ANALYZING SYSTEMS THINKING WITH THE ICEBERG TOOL) 2025-
2026 Western Governors University
WMM1 — WMM1 Task 3
WGU
Introduction to Systems Thinking — D372
, 2
WGU's Four-Step Tool (based on "Six Steps to Thinking Systemically" by Michael Goodman and Richard Karash)
STEP 1: Complete an Iceberg Tool for this case study.
The Iceberg Tool is a way to see how the structure (that is, the background of the case) ties together the individual
events and the patterns and trends that emerge from recurring events. Using the Iceberg Tool allows you to see the
basic facts and interconnections, an important first step.
Iceberg Tool to Understand Patterns and Structure
Iceberg tool shows events at the top, patterns and trends at the water line, structure near the bottom and
less visible.
Questions to Ask
1. What are the key events in this case study?
• Jamal is hesitant to utilize the new program because he is concerned about his immediate performance and
because the new application has a steep learning curve associated with it.
• Maria recognizes that there has been a drop-in productivity; however, she emphasizes the significance of
long-term value and the expectations of the CEO.
• Keeping up with the ever-changing expectations of customers and ensuring that the company remains
competitive are two of Pat's (CEO) core priorities.
2. What patterns do you notice in the key events of this case study?
• Prioritizing short-term gains over long-term competitiveness is a common practice.
• Struggle between keeping up with present output and incorporating innovative tools in order to make
progress in the future.
WMM1 D372 Introduction to systems thinking (TASK 3: ANALYZING SYSTEMS THINKING WITH THE ICEBERG TOOL) 2025-
2026 Western Governors University
WMM1 — WMM1 Task 3
WGU
Introduction to Systems Thinking — D372
, 2
WGU's Four-Step Tool (based on "Six Steps to Thinking Systemically" by Michael Goodman and Richard Karash)
STEP 1: Complete an Iceberg Tool for this case study.
The Iceberg Tool is a way to see how the structure (that is, the background of the case) ties together the individual
events and the patterns and trends that emerge from recurring events. Using the Iceberg Tool allows you to see the
basic facts and interconnections, an important first step.
Iceberg Tool to Understand Patterns and Structure
Iceberg tool shows events at the top, patterns and trends at the water line, structure near the bottom and
less visible.
Questions to Ask
1. What are the key events in this case study?
• Jamal is hesitant to utilize the new program because he is concerned about his immediate performance and
because the new application has a steep learning curve associated with it.
• Maria recognizes that there has been a drop-in productivity; however, she emphasizes the significance of
long-term value and the expectations of the CEO.
• Keeping up with the ever-changing expectations of customers and ensuring that the company remains
competitive are two of Pat's (CEO) core priorities.
2. What patterns do you notice in the key events of this case study?
• Prioritizing short-term gains over long-term competitiveness is a common practice.
• Struggle between keeping up with present output and incorporating innovative tools in order to make
progress in the future.
