Systems Thinking 101

Learn to model systems holistically with Sruja. Master the five core systems thinking concepts: parts and relationships, boundaries, flows, feedback loops, and context.

Course Overview

Systems thinking helps you understand how components interact as part of a whole. This course teaches you to model systems using Sruja's architecture-as-code approach, enabling you to visualize and validate complex system interactions.

What You'll Learn

• Module 1: Fundamentals - Core systems thinking concepts and why they matter
• Module 2: Parts and Relationships - Model components and their interactions
• Module 3: Boundaries - Define what's inside vs. outside your system
• Module 4: Flows - Visualize data and information movement through the system
• Module 5: Feedback Loops - Model cycles and reactive behaviors
• Module 6: Context - Capture the environment, dependencies, and stakeholders

Prerequisites

• Basic familiarity with Sruja DSL (or complete CLI Basics)
• Understanding of C4 Model concepts

Learning Path

Each module contains hands-on examples with Sruja syntax. You'll write .sruja files, validate them with sruja lint, and export to Mermaid diagrams with sruja export mermaid.

Why Systems Thinking?

• Holistic understanding: See the whole system, not just parts
• Natural patterns: Model real-world interactions and feedback
• Clear boundaries: Understand what's in scope vs. context
• Flow visualization: See how data and information move
• Valid cycles: Feedback loops are natural, not errors

Course Duration

Approximately 6-8 hours to complete all modules and exercises.

Next Steps

Start with Module 1: Fundamentals or review the Beginner path for a complete learning journey.