Set out as a systems archetype by Peter M. Senge (The Fifth Discipline, 1990) and restated by John D. Sterman (Business Dynamics, 2000).
Describes how a fix relieves a symptom now but triggers a delayed side effect that brings the problem back worse, the delay hiding the link.
When to reach for it
Before approving a quick fix, to trace what the system will do with it once the first relief has worn off.
How it runs
- Name the fix and the problem it targets.
- Trace its effects past the first result.
- Look for delayed effects that could recreate the problem.
- If any turn up, look for an intervention without that side effect.
- When unsure, pilot the fix and watch for the delayed signal.
Where it sits in SOLVE eX
Go to the source
- The Fifth Discipline, 1990
- Business Dynamics, 2000