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This paper discusses the coordinated use of the Soft Systems Methodology (SSM) learning cycle with additional bodies of knowledge. This approach furthers focused understanding and appreciation for taking action within social systems. Adapting the SSM learning cycle extends the richness of the real-world situation understood from an analytic soft systems perspective to encompass the appreciation of a problematical situation using additional bodies of knowledge to explain and explore. Examples illustrate using SSM to foster learning and improve teaching in a research education practice, in a national level research project and, further, in professional in-service at advanced level education.

Major investments in Sweden have equipped schools with digital technologies. However, the digital technologies are, reportedly, not being used to support everyday teaching and learning practices. Rather, the digital technologies are mainly used as administrative tools. In order to enable teachers to adopt and use digital technologies, it is crucial to understand their worldviews and their everyday practice, as well as external influences and underlying perspectives.In response, this paper discusses dilemmas associated with teachers' everyday practice using digital technologies. The research methodologies included a Focused Ethnographic approach complemented by Soft Systems Methodology, especially Rich Pictures. Results provide rich context for appreciating the complex dilemmas experienced by four teachers, two school leaders, three representatives from the Department of Education and the head of the municipal IT unit, who together constituted the informants for this research.

Digital business model innovation is discussed by bringing together systemic innovation and digital innovation. Applying the Rich Picture technique, the complexity transpiring in the digital innovation of the business models is illustrated. Further, a real world example is presented and discussed in relation to systemic innovation and digital innovation. This study further contributes by shedding light on the added complexity brought by digital innovation but also the need for a combined and mixed systems thinking approach.