Abstract for: The Kissing Fishes Diagram: A Structured Approach to Fostering Operational Thinking in Model Conceptualization

Operational thinking is widely recognized as foundational to system dynamics (SD) modeling, yet it is often treated as an implicit competency expected to emerge from general guidance rather than structured instruction. Consequently, many conceptual models—particularly those developed by less experienced practitioners—exhibit structural deficiencies that undermine credibility and become apparent only during formulation or validation. Despite its importance, systematic approaches for cultivating operational thinking during conceptualization remain limited. This study introduces the Kissing Fishes Diagram (KFD), a structured adaptation of the Fishbone Diagram that embeds operational reasoning within the conceptualization phase of system dynamics modeling. The KFD promotes quantitative thinking in qualitative model construction, making explicit and teachable a reasoning process experts apply implicitly. Grounded in equation-based articulation and structured “how” questions, the framework guides functional specification of causal relationships and strengthens structural validity for improved model performance. The Kissing Fishes Diagram (KFD) functions as a “training wheel” for operational thinking—a temporary scaffold that supports early-stage rigor while fostering durable modeling judgment. By making causal relationships explicit and equation-consistent, the framework improves conceptual clarity, reduces structural ambiguity, and supports more systematic development of model structure during conceptualization. By providing a structured mechanism for operational reasoning, the KFD advances conceptual rigor and methodological practice in system dynamics. The approach supports the development and internalization of mechanistic thinking, particularly for novice modelers, while clarifying causal structure. Its pedagogical and methodological implications suggest opportunities for improving model quality and strengthening SD modeling practice. Grammar checking and language editing