Limiting factors are the key elements of a system that restrict it’s behaviour. They could be resources (stocks), or connections (flows). Justus von Liebig came up with the "law of the minimum" with regards to grain. It doesn't matter how much nitrogen is available to the grain, he said, if what's short is phosphorus. It does no good to pour on more phosphorus, if the problem is low potassium.

A strategic and whole system approach to problem solving asks the question “what is limiting the outcomes I am aiming for?” Most likely, you should prioritise those limiting factors. For example, if you wish to personally develop and learn but haven’t read a book, perhaps time is your limiting factor. Buying a new exciting book, or subscribing to the podcast isn’t likely to lead to learning. You need to make the time. Or perhaps motivation may be your limiting factor?

In leadership look for what’s holding the behaviours you want back in your team and organisation. It may not be the obvious factors. However, by focusing on the right limiting elements you will make the most significant difference in the change you seek to make.

Like in most models, there are limitations to simplifying a system down so much. Many systems may evolve or adapt due to the shortages. However, by simplifying using a mental model you can bring clarity to a complex situation. This will enable us to see what the system looks like and what is limiting the outcomes that we seek. We can then address these limiting factors.