This lecture is an introduction to the course ‘Technology dynamics and transition management’ in China. With water problems being the focus of the course, this topic is introduced along with background information that will be dealt with to explore the topic. Water problems worldwide and in the China region will be discussed as well as general concepts of technology dynamics and sustainable development. Especially important is the understanding of socio-technical systems. At the end of the lecture you can find working instructions to deal with socio-technical problems.