Arab Open University SYS280 TMA: Systems Dynamic Conflict Modelling

This assignment presents a systems dynamics model designed to analyze team conflict within a business context. The model identifies four key levels: team size, dyadic level, individual level, and time, which interact with elements like inputs, behaviors, conflict, and outcomes. The assignment details how these levels influence team decision-making and conflict resolution. It explores the limitations of the model, including self-organization, non-linearity, and asymmetric information, while proposing the use of a double-loop learning structure to enhance feedback and adapt to changing environments. Furthermore, it suggests a virtual learning model with simulation to improve interpersonal communication and team interdependence. The assignment concludes with a reflection on minimizing team conflict and maintaining feedback mechanisms, supported by relevant academic sources.

SYSTEMS DYNAMIC
MODELLING

Description of the problem
The main problem to be discussed here is the team conflict arising in the team of 5 members
due to the task and relationship conflict. The conflict normally arise due to the difference in
opinions and the dysfunctional team behaviors.

Use of Systems Dynamic Modelling
It is useful for the organization in the sense that it will help in team and group interventions
with the interdependence among the system units and the proper feedback structure will be
constructed as per the adaptive environment.

Conceptual Diagram of the problem

Model Description – Main Elements
The model consists of the 4 main levels
a. The team size
b. The dyadic level
c. The individual level
d. Time
These four levels will interact with the other elements like inputs, behavior, conflict and the
outcomes.
We can see the interactions of each level unit with the element unit through this model.

Model Description - Purpose
All these three interactions together create the overall conflict model. From the team level, with
the input of team size, team interactions and the team conflict- the team outcome of final
decision or the quality consensus is decided. However, the team outcomes is decided on the
individual behavior itself. The time as the general element sets the basic foundational base. It
controls the overall functioning of the conflict and the team activities with the rise of conflict
and the solution devised to end the conflict.

Limitations of the Diagram
Limitation 1
There is self-organization
among the units of
individual level disturbing
the dynamics.
Limitation 2
The non-linearity among
the multiple factors within
a system unit at a
particular level.
Limitation 3
The asymmetric
information interrupting
the flow of interaction
among the elements.

Explanation for Use in Policy Analysis
The double-loop learning model structure is used to alter the decisions within all of the pre-
existing frames in order to help in providing feedback through the adaptive environment and
with better interaction among elements of the system.

Double loop learning structure

Purpose of using double loop learning
structure
In order to fix the replacement of short run and static view of reality with a long term and flexible
approach of solving the problem with coordination among the strategies, decisions and the
information feedback.

Suggestion
The virtual model of learning with simulation model of feedback is recommended to enhance the
interpersonal communication of the team members through role playing and simulation games
increasing the dependence with each other.

Purpose of the suggestion
The feedback structure can get redesigned with no more missing feedback among the team
members with the reduced resistance tendencies in the channels of the system through dyadic
interaction.