Systems Thinking // Beyond Coding Podcast #49 - Patrick Akil with Diana Montalion

Nonlinear Thinking

Systems thinking, or nonlinear thinking, challenges our traditional linear mindset, which is often ingrained through education and cognitive biases. Diana Montalion explains that this shift requires a practice-oriented approach, unlike learning a programming language like JavaScript 1. She notes that while linear thinking is valuable, it is only a part of the broader systems thinking framework, which allows for more complex and asynchronous interactions, such as those enabled by GraphQL 2. Patrick Akil adds that understanding the broader system context, beyond immediate tasks, enhances one's ability to contribute effectively in tech environments 1.

The challenge with systems thinking, with nonlinear thinking is that out of the box, we're truly terrible at it, and we're not helped by the fact that we tend to be educated in a linear model.

--- Diana Montalion

   

Tech Evolution

In the tech industry, nonlinear thinking is becoming increasingly crucial as software systems grow more complex. Diana Montalion emphasizes the need to integrate diverse skill sets, moving beyond traditional linear skills to include what she calls core skills 3. She shares her experience of how biases in tech education and hiring practices can hinder the development of these essential skills 4. Additionally, Patrick Akil highlights the evolving user context, where systems must adapt to varying user needs and environments, such as different devices or platforms 5.

We need to learn to bring different types of skill sets than what we think of as IT skills together, or we won't get better systems.

--- Diana Montalion