Let’s say an NGO is tackling youth unemployment. Without a systems approach, they might assume job training alone will solve the issue. But what if the problem also involves lack of local industries, social stigma against vocational careers, or limited transportation to job hubs? A causal loop map would uncover these hidden barriers, allowing for a more comprehensive, multi-layered solution.

In the next article, we’ll bring system maps to life with real-world examples of how NGOs have used them to solve tough challenges. We’ll show you how pinpointing the right leverage points can turn small tweaks into massive impact—because when you see the bigger picture, you can change the whole game.