Achieving Maximal Efficiency Using Systems Thinking

The author in this chapter situates the development of systems thinking within policing as a model to achieve outstanding outcomes. An analysis is presented of the necessary elements of systems thinking to develop criminal investigation with an example from Cumbria Constabulary. Critical to this is leadership, and a commitment to understanding elements of the system at a deep level before taking steps to initiate change. This approach had the potential to secure justice for victims and enhance investigative reliability which is critical to the legitimacy of modern policing.