This week an international group of researchers held a first workshop on applying System Dynamics in information systems research at University of Stuttgart, Germany.

System dynamics (SD) is an approach to understanding the nonlinear behavior of complex systems. It uses elements like stocks, flows, internal feedback loops, table functions and time delays to model, analyze and guide the management of real world settings. It was developed as a method of inquiry during the mid-1950s by Professor Jay Forrester of MIT.

On invitation of Professor Dr. Andreas Größler who leads the Department of Operations Management at University of Stuttgart, the participants learned how to design basic model structures and to create first analyses with standard SD software. A good part of the workshop was dedicated to discuss application opportunities and challenges for IS research, taking into account the particular perspectives and methodological approaches. Many thanks go to Professor Größler and his team who made this workshop a great success!