Using system dynamics for collaborative design:: a case study

Background: In order to facilitate the collaborative design, system dynamics (SD) with a group modelling approach was used in the early stages of planning a new stroke unit. During six workshops a SD model was created in a multiprofessional group. Aim: To explore to which extent and how the use of system dynamics contributed to the collaborative design process. Method: A case study was conducted using several data sources. Results: SD supported a collaborative design, by facilitating an explicit description of stroke care process, a dialogue and a joint understanding. The construction of the model obliged the group to conceptualise the stroke care and experimentation with the model gave the opportunity to reflect on care. Conclusion: SD facilitated the collaborative design process and should be integrated in the early stages of the design process as a quality improvement tool.