What is Iceberg Model?

The iceberg model is a systems thinking framework that pictures a problem as an iceberg: the visible tip is the event, the small percentage we notice and react to, while beneath the surface sit patterns of behavior, underlying structures, and finally the mental models that give rise to everything above.

Working down through the levels, from event to pattern to structure to mental model, moves a person from reacting to a single incident toward redesigning the structure or belief that keeps producing similar incidents. It is one of the most widely used entry points for teams that are new to systems thinking.

Related reading: The iceberg model in systems thinking.