**Pattern Name:**
Variables
**Introduction:**
Interactive dynamic human socio-technical systems are made up of many parts that may change over time and that are caused to change by other parts.
**Illustration:**
Structure affects Behaviour!source
**CONTEXT:**
Complexity arises mainly through the causal interaction of variables. Complexity can be overwhelming. We must identify and understand enough variables to cope with complex situations.
**PROBLEM:** Misunderstanding variables leads to oversimplified models and surprising results from use of those models.
**Forces:**
**THEREFORE (SOLUTION):**
Name and define key variables. Use Six Questions Exercise Clarify the interactions among variables over time. Use Causal Loop Model
**Actions:**
**Consequences:**
**Known Uses:**
**RELATED PATTERNS:**
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