From 10 to 14 August 2026, 16 participants from seven countries came together at the Technical University of Munich for the first International Summer School on Systems Modelling.
SysMod 2026 combined systems thinking, FRAM, STAMP/STPA, quantitative FRAM approaches, and dynamic systems modelling with practical exercises, interdisciplinary teamwork, and open discussion.
Explore the SysMod Summer School: sysmod-summerschool.lfe.ed.tum.de
A Common Modelling Challenge
Throughout the week, participants worked with a shared model of a closed-loop space colony consisting of five interacting subsystems: air, water, energy, food, and recycling.
Teams extended the common model to explore:
- Medical Support and Quarantine Management
- Risk Assessment and Disaster Prevention
- Robot-Based Transport, Logistics, and Recycling
- Crew Wellbeing and Sleep Quality
Different Perspectives on One System
The final presentations showed how different disciplinary perspectives can produce distinct and equally valuable insights into the same complex socio-technical system.
A central theme in the participant feedback was the value of learning by doing. Applying the methods directly, working in interdisciplinary teams, and comparing FRAM and STPA helped connect methodological concepts with practical modelling experience.
An International Learning Community
The formal programme was complemented by a Munich city tour, a shared dinner, a beer garden visit, and many informal conversations.
These exchanges were an important part of the Summer School and supported connections across disciplines, countries, and methodological backgrounds.
Thank You
Thank you to all participants for their engagement, questions, ideas, and collaborative contributions.
Continuing in 2027
The feedback from SysMod 2026 confirmed strong interest in practical education on systems modelling, resilience engineering, and socio-technical systems analysis.
The next edition is currently planned for Norway in 2027.
See you at SysMod 2027!