The methodology

The Sys Lab team has developed over the years a methodology that combines a design vision with the interest in the analysis, exploration, and development of complex systems in response to wicked problems.

Building on well-established Systemic Design models, the Sys Lab methodology delivers practical tools to approach complex scenarios with a holistic perspective, while supporting active cooperation among involved stakeholders. Starting from a broad analysis of the existing system, all possible solutions are explored to converge towards a systemic project that is then developed and finally implemented into the real system. Within the methodological framework of Sys Lab there are 5 steps for a successful research project:

1. The holistic diagnosis of the current scenario, considering both the surrounding context and the flows of energy and matter
2. The identification of challenges and opportunities of the current scenario and its flows
3. The design of a new systemic model based on relationships between processes and actors, which optimizes information, energy and material flows and gives value to waste as resources
4. The identification and the study of the new outcomes generated by the new systemic model
5. The validation of the system by demonstrating its feasibility and by implementing the project in the specific context