Base120 · Systems

Causal Loop Diagrams

SY · Systems

Visualize circular cause-effect relationships with reinforcing and balancing dynamics

Model code
SY10
Transformation
SY (Systems) — Identify leverage points, feedback structures, and emergent dynamics in whole systems.
Priority
10 of 20
Framework
HUMMBL Base120 — 120 mental models across 6 transformations

When to use

"Use when a system's behavior is driven by circular causality (A causes B causes A). Visualize the loops with arrows and polarity marks (+/-). The visualization makes the circular causality visible, which linear thinking misses."

Example

"A team's morale diagram — morale -> productivity -> recognition -> morale (reinforcing loop). And morale -> burnout -> productivity drop -> morale (balancing loop). The CLD shows both loops operating simultaneously, which explains why morale oscillates."

Common misuse

"Drawing the diagram without polarity marks. Without + and - on the arrows, you cannot tell whether the loop is reinforcing or balancing. The polarity is the analysis; without it, the diagram is just a picture."

Also known as

CLDCausal Loop Visualization

Related models

SY6SY3RE2