ESSENTIAL FUNCTION 1: IN PRACTICE
The Iceberg Framework
An iceberg is often used to describe systems thinking. Similar to an iceberg that has only 10% of its form above the water, the Iceberg Framework reminds us to take a broader look at the patterns and relationships that make a system function. The framework describes four levels that can provide insight into any situation (Systems Innovation, 2018).
- The Event: The “tip of the iceberg” is the issue being examined. It is the observable actions, activities, and/or variables produced by the system’s operation.
- Patterns of Behavior: When examining an event, one can often see patterns from the recurrence of the event. An awareness of recurring events identifies relationships between events and allows one to adapt to recurring problems rather than simply reacting to isolated events.
- Structures: Structures are often the reason for recurring patterns. Structure accounts for 80 to 90% of all issues. Structures may be physical (buildings, traffic flow, vending machines), norms, policies, guidelines, power structures, distributions of resources, or informal ways of work that are tacitly or explicitly institutionalized.
- Mental Models: Mental models are people’s deeply held assumptions, attitudes, values, expectations, culture, and/or beliefs that influence and drive their behavior. Mental models keep the structure doing what it does.
Watch the following video describing the Iceberg Framework as it relates to system change. Iceberg Model (Systems Innovation, 2018).
ICEBERG MODEL IN ACTION
The Iceberg Framework can be used to think about the components of a district system’s continuous improvement efforts. Select an issue from your district and reflect on each level by answering the questions below.
Events: What is happening? _____________
Patterns: Has this happened before? When and where? ______________
Structures: What are the structures that contribute to the patterns? _____________
Mental Models: What mental models are causing this event to persist? ____________
Reflective Questions
For what issues in your school or district might an Iceberg Framework Analysis be useful?
How might the Iceberg Framework Analysis change your perspective and/or thinking process?
What challenges would there be in using the Iceberg Framework Analysis to address changes in your district?
Coaching Companion
Study Suggestion: Systems Thinking: What, Why, When, Where, and How? Goodman, M. (2018).
Blog Post: Tools for Systems Thinkers: The 6 Fundamental Concepts of Systems Thinking. Acaroglu, L. (2017).