Leaders across all sectors are dealing with problems that can't be resolved simply through small incremental improvements. Problems such as climate instability, technological disruptions, increasing inequality, environmental degradation and economic uncertainty are becoming increasingly interrelated and difficult to resolve using typical business strategies and management techniques.
Thus what is needed today is not better optimization, but systems change.
Focusing on the Cause, Not the Symptom
This need has resulted in the creation of the Ivey Systems Change Lab. The lab will develop research that enables organizations, communities and future leaders to make changes at the structure, relationship and mental model levels that create current systems. In other words, rather than focusing on the symptoms of problems, we will focus on the cause (the condition) that creates the symptom.
In our research we will examine the cultural narratives, decision-making frames, organizational architecture and governance frameworks that either create or eliminate harm within a system. Additionally we will test and develop new operating, financial, relational and community based models that facilitate the transition from linear problem solving to collective stewardship of long term societal well-being.
Our Guiding Principles
We bring together researchers, students, indigenous partners, community leaders and organizations to explore ways of transforming large systems into more regenerative, equitable and resilient systems. We recognize that no single organization or sector can create a new system.
Systems Thinking
Examining the ways in which decisions are made, power is distributed, and organizations are governed to identify systems locked into detrimental behaviors versus those capable of evolving toward sustainable futures.
Co-Creation
Working collectively to explore how to reorient ecological, social and economic systems to produce more equitable and regenerative futures, transforming the underpinning structures and mental models.
Cross-Sector Collaboration
Assuming that all organizations, sectors and disciplines working independently cannot produce systemic change. Systemic change can occur only through continued collaboration across boundaries.
An Educational Vehicle
For developing leadership skills related to systems change, the Ivey Systems Change Lab provides students and practitioners with hands-on experience with system mapping, intervention design and cross sector collaboration. This provides students and practitioners with the skills to lead and manage under conditions of complexity and uncertainty.
Lab Leadership
The Ivey Systems Change Lab is one of Ivey’s impact labs and supports Ivey's goal of developing leaders who can build sustainable, thriving communities.
Dr. Lara Liboni
Lab Director & Associate Professor
Dr. Lara Liboni leads the Ivey Systems Change Lab. She is an associate professor of strategy and sustainability at Ivey and a scholar of systems transformation, regenerative leadership and indigenous informed approaches to management.
Dr. Mazi Raz
Assistant Professor
Dr. Mazi Raz is an Assistant Professor in the Strategy area group. With a Ph.D. and MBA from Ivey, his research and teaching explore systems thinking, the intersection of ideological trends and managerial practices, and the role of human imagination in organizational life.
Accepting Applications for Research Assistants
Research Assistants will participate in research projects including systems mapping, organizational transformation, sustainability transitions, and cross-sector collaboration.
All research is completed virtually — although, there may be some opportunity for greater involvement in specific projects based on both the needs of the project and student interests. Students interested in systems thinking, research, and making a positive impact on the world should apply.