Document Type : Research Paper

Authors

1 Department of Architecture, Ha.C., Branch, Islamic Azad University, Hamedan, Iran.

2 Full Professor of Architecture (Corresponding Author), Faculty of Architecture and Urban Design, Shahid Rajaei Teacher Training University, Tehran, Iran

3 PhD student in architecture, of Architecture, Department of Architecture, Ha.C., Branch, Islamic Azad University, Hamedan, Iran.

10.22061/jsaud.2025.11508.2278

Abstract

Systems thinking, as a holistic method by analyzing the interrelationships between components in a system, allows designers to comprehensively and systematically examine complex design problems. The present study was formed with the aim of examining the position of systems thinking in the sustainable design process and explaining the impact of this approach on improving performance and coordination in designs. The research sought to answer two main questions; How does systems thinking work in improving the design process? What are the components of systems thinking in improving the design process? The present study is qualitative and is a cross-sectional study in terms of time. The method of collecting information in the present study was library and field methods. First, various sources were reviewed and using the content analysis method, the components of systems thinking in the design process, the principles, advantages, and challenges of applying systems thinking in the design process were determined. In other words, using scientific and reliable sources in the fields of systems thinking and design process, the position of these two concepts was examined together. For searching and reviewing, available scientific sources such as research articles, books, and electronic resources including domestic and international reputable scientific databases such as Google Scholar, SID, Scopus, and civilica were used. Then, using the Delphi method and the opinions of selected referees, the components were finally approved. The statistical population included professors of the Department of Architecture and Industrial Design. In the present study, 6 people were selected as a sample on a convenience basis for internal validity. The data were analyzed qualitatively using SPSS version 22 software. The findings showed that the systems thinking model in design included 3 main themes, 6 subthemes, and 20 components. The internal validity of the model was examined using the Delphi method, with 1 component being eliminated, and the Kendall coordination coefficient based on the opinions of 6 referees for the model components was 0.93, which was significant at the 0.001 level. Based on these results, it can be said that the use of systems thinking in design can significantly improve the design process and create more sustainable solutions in the categories of having a comprehensive and comprehensive view in design, reducing errors and problems, improving coordination between components, increasing efficiency and productivity, and increasing design sustainability. However, there are limitations such as the complexity of the design process and the need for more time and resources, multidisciplinary expertise and skills, as well as resistance to change in the implementation of this approach.

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