Introduction: Complexity Many parts interacting with each other in multiple ways

The world is fast-changing and increasingly more turbulent. The problems and challenges we face are both complex and adaptive and thus more resilient in the face of traditional approaches and ways of working. We are dealing with so-called complex adaptive systems. What is a complex adaptive system? A complex adaptive system is a system that … Continue reading Introduction: Complexity Many parts interacting with each other in multiple ways

What Is a System? ** An interconnected set of elements organized in a way that achieves something

A system is a set of  interconnected, interacting, interrelated, or interdependent elements such as people, ideas or things that forms a whole and is coherently organized in a way that achieves something. Three main characteristics define a system: it comprises a set of elements these elements are interconnected with one another these elements are organized … Continue reading What Is a System? ** An interconnected set of elements organized in a way that achieves something

Complex Is Not the Same as Complicated We often say that something is complex when it is merely difficult or complicated

In everyday language, we often say something is complex when it is merely difficult or complicated. A complex system is very different from a complicated one.  In the language of complexity, the engine on a Boeing 747 is complicated, but it is not complex. On the other hand, the human brain is complex. If you … Continue reading Complex Is Not the Same as Complicated We often say that something is complex when it is merely difficult or complicated

The Cynefin Framework A conceptual framework to help make decisions

The Cynefin framework helps you make better decisions by understanding the situation/context you are in and using an appropriate decision-making method. The Cynefin framework is a conceptual framework used to aid decision-making. It was created in 1999 by Dave Snowden. It can also be described as a “sense-making device.” Cynefin is a Welsh word for … Continue reading The Cynefin Framework A conceptual framework to help make decisions

Vector Theory of Change ** Dave Snowden

With their rigid plans and fixed outcomes, traditional change management methods often struggle in today’s unpredictable environments. Dave Snowden’s Vector Theory of Change offers a more adaptable solution by focusing on setting a broad direction (vector) rather than a specific goal.  Introduction In today’s complex world, initiating successful change can be daunting. The traditional approach, … Continue reading Vector Theory of Change ** Dave Snowden

Safe-to-fail Experiments Allow emergent possibilities to become more visible

Safe-to-fail experiments are small-scale experiments that approach issues from different angles in small and safe-to-fail ways. The intent is to approach issues in small, contained ways to allow emergent possibilities to become more visible. The concept of “safe to fail” as described by Dave Snowden is an approach to dealing with the inherent uncertainty and … Continue reading Safe-to-fail Experiments Allow emergent possibilities to become more visible

Dispositional States **

… Pop-up all chapters × Chapters The Challenge of ComplexityPrinciples of Conversational LeadershipOur Evolutionary JourneyThe Power of ConversationConversational LeadershipPracticing Conversational LeadershipConversational Leadership SkillsConversational Leadership HabitsConversational Leadership MethodsDiscourse and NarrativeCommunityThe Knowledge CaféKnowledge Café PrinciplesKnowledge Café ProcessKnowledge Café DesignKnowledge Café VariationsKnowledge Café SpaceKnowledge Café ApplicationsConversational LearningConversational StoriesConversational SpacesConversational EnvironmentsParticipatory ConferencesStrategic ConversationsInnovationMotivation and EngagementComplexityKnowledge ManagementArtificial IntelligenceSmall Group ConversationsVirtual … Continue reading Dispositional States **

The Nature of Problems ** Some problems don't have solutions - only responses

Let’s look at the nature of problems. Problems can be classified into three categories: simple ones (“cause and effect” is obvious) complicated ones (“cause and effect” is operating but is less obvious) complex adaptive ones (no obvious “cause and effect”) Let’s give an everyday example of each. Simple: Problem: the tap (faucet) is dripping. Solution: … Continue reading The Nature of Problems ** Some problems don’t have solutions – only responses

There Are No Solutions to Complex Problems Just an endless series of responses

We talk incessantly about “fixing things”, “solving problems” and “solutions to problems.” Marketers love the word “solution”. For simple, even complicated problems, there are solutions. But is it really possible to solve complex problems? There are no solutions to complex problems. There are always unforeseen or unintended consequences. In other words, there are side effects. … Continue reading There Are No Solutions to Complex Problems Just an endless series of responses

Unintended Consequences In a complex system, every purposeful action produces unintended consequences

Unintended consequences are outcomes of an action that are not intended or foreseen. Most such consequences are undesirable.  However, it is far too easy in business and international development to be armchair philosophers. We often think that the world’s problems are simple and that we have the answers. There are always unintended consequences (sometimes called … Continue reading Unintended Consequences In a complex system, every purposeful action produces unintended consequences

Adaptive Leadership ** Mobilizing people to tackle tough challenges and thrive

Adaptive leadership is the activity of mobilizing people to tackle tough challenges and thrive. Ronald Heifetz: The nature of adaptive leadership Marty Linsky: Adaptive Leadership-Leading Change Resources Article: Becoming an Adaptive Leader Pop-up all chapters × Chapters The Challenge of ComplexityPrinciples of Conversational LeadershipOur Evolutionary JourneyThe Power of ConversationConversational LeadershipPracticing Conversational LeadershipConversational Leadership SkillsConversational Leadership HabitsConversational Leadership MethodsDiscourse and NarrativeCommunityThe Knowledge CaféKnowledge … Continue reading Adaptive Leadership ** Mobilizing people to tackle tough challenges and thrive

The Fourth Industrial Revolution A new era of connectedness and complexity

The complexity of the world is accelerating as we enter the fourth industrial revolution (4IR), in which disruptive technologies and trends such as the Internet of Things (IoT), robotics, virtual reality (VR), and artificial intelligence (AI) rapidly change the way we live and work. Resources The Fourth Industrial Revolution by Klaus Schwab Article: Everything you need … Continue reading The Fourth Industrial Revolution A new era of connectedness and complexity