Introduction to RAW Systems Work®

This workshop introduces core concepts from the RAW Systems Work Model® - a comprehensive approach for coaches, facilitators, consultants, and leaders who work with groups of people toward common goals. While the complete model and its applications are detailed in the accompanying book "Emergent Systems Thinking and Authentic Practice with Right Attention," this workshop provides an experiential taste of key concepts to begin your systems work journey.

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Who This Is For

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Coaches, facilitators, agile coaches, consultants, and organizational leaders who work with groups and want to explore a systems-based approach to their practice.

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Workshop Focus

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This introductory session explores selected concepts from the larger body of work:

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Understanding Systems vs. Groups

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• Experience the difference between collections of individuals and true systems
• Use the interdependence-commitment matrix as one lens for viewing group dynamics
• Explore how groups function differently when they achieve system-level coherence

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Introduction to Grey Box Perspective

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• Understand why human systems can't be fully "white-boxed" (completely understood)
• Learn why partial visibility (grey box) is actually optimal for working with living systems
• Practice basic grey box questioning as one approach to revealing system dynamics

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Systems Work Values

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• Explore three value shifts that inform systems work
• Experience how these values shape your approach to groups
• Connect these values to your existing practice

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System Entry Points

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• Introduction to four areas where systems naturally focus their attention
• Practice identifying where a system's energy is concentrated
• Understand how this awareness can inform your work

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What This Workshop Is (and Isn't)

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This is a companion workshop that introduces you to systems work concepts through direct experience. It provides a practical entry point into the RAW Systems Work Model® and helps you determine if this approach aligns with your practice.

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This is not a comprehensive training - the full model, its theoretical foundations, competency frameworks, and detailed applications are contained in the book. Think of this workshop as tasting the wine before exploring the vineyard.

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Your Experience

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Through demonstrations, exercises, and real-time practice with actual systems challenges you're facing, you'll get a hands-on introduction to systems work principles. You'll leave with practical insights you can immediately apply, plus a clear understanding of whether you want to pursue deeper study through the book.

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Included Materials

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• Digital copy of "Emergent Systems Thinking and Authentic Practice with Right Attention - A Primer for Systems Work" (the complete model and methodology)
• Workshop learning guide with exercises and reference materials
• Access to practical tools introduced during the session

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