Why are we talking about systems thinking and sport?
We’re all working to try and achieve the same thing: an active Wales, where everyone has the opportunity of a lifelong enjoyment of sport. Systems thinking can help us get closer to that goal and overcome the stubborn barriers we’ve been unable to shift by encouraging us to step back and look at the bigger picture.
It's about understanding that people’s activity levels are shaped by far more than sport alone: where they live, how welcome they feel, the time and money they have, their physical ability, the people around them, and the opportunities they can access; to name just some. If we want more people to take part, especially those who currently face the biggest barriers, we need to understand those wider factors and work together (in and outside of the sport sector) to change them.
Systems thinking can help us look at those wider factors that influence participation. It gives us a way to ask better questions, make stronger connections and focus our efforts on the changes that can make the biggest difference over time.
How does systems thinking fit in with our strategy?
Systems thinking is not a new project or a separate piece of work. It is a practical way to help us deliver our strategy and bring the Vision for Sport to life.
It can help us see how our work connects, where we can have the most influence, and how we can make better choices about where we put our time and energy. Instead of looking at projects in isolation, it helps us think about the whole picture and the part each of us can play.
The Leadership Team is now looking at the business plan through this lens, so that our efforts are focused on where they can do the most good.
What should we do next?
We can all take some time to reflect on the conversations that were held during the systems thinking events and this week’s Lightning Learning. Where you can spot an opportunity for adopting a more systems thinking based approach, discuss this with your Manager or Project lead. Where you are unsure about systems thinking and what it means for Sport Wales, speak to your Leadership Rep, who will be able to support.
We are at the start of something important. There will be more updates and resources as this work develops, but the real difference will come from how we all use this thinking in our day-to-day work. Together, we can help create a Wales where more people feel able, welcome and inspired to enjoy sport for life.