Applications Of Systems Thinking And Soft Operations Research In Managing Complexity

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Applications of Systems Thinking and Soft Operations Research in Managing Complexity

Anthony J. Masys
Applications of Systems Thinking and Soft Operations Research in Managing Complexity Book PDF

Author : Anthony J. Masys
Publisher : Springer
Page : 322 pages
File Size : 43,8 Mb
Release : 2015-09-14
Category : Science
ISBN : 9783319211060

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Applications of Systems Thinking and Soft Operations Research in Managing Complexity by Anthony J. Masys Pdf

This book captures current trends and developments in the field of systems thinking and soft operations research which can be applied to solve today's problems of dynamic complexity and interdependency. Such ‘wicked problems’ and messes are seemingly intractable problems characterized as value-laden, ambiguous, and unstable, that resist being tamed by classical problem solving. Actions and interventions associated with this complex problem space can have highly unpredictable and unintended consequences. Examples of such complex problems include health care reform, global climate change, transnational serious and organized crime, terrorism, homeland security, human security, disaster management, and humanitarian aid. Moving towards the development of solutions to these complex problem spaces depends on the lens we use to examine them and how we frame the problem. It will be shown that systems thinking and soft operations research has had great success in contributing to the management of complexity.

Soft Systems Methodology in Action

Peter Checkland,Jim Scholes
Soft Systems Methodology in Action Book PDF

Author : Peter Checkland,Jim Scholes
Publisher : John Wiley & Sons
Page : 438 pages
File Size : 52,8 Mb
Release : 1999-09-28
Category : Science
ISBN : 9780471986058

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Soft Systems Methodology in Action by Peter Checkland,Jim Scholes Pdf

Soft Systems Methodology in Action "Whether by design, accident or merely synchronicity, Checkland appears to have developed a habit of writing seminal publications near the start of each decade which establish the basis and framework for systems methodology research for that decade." Hamish Rennie, Journal of the Operational Research Society, 1992 Thirty years ago Peter Checkland set out to test whether the Systems Engineering (SE) approach, highly successful in technical problems, could be used by managers coping with the unfolding complexities of organizational life. The straightforward transfer of SE to the broader situations of management was not possible, but by insisting on a combination of systems thinking strongly linked to real-world practice Checkland and his collaborators developed an alternative approach - Soft Systems Methodology (SSM) - which enables managers of all kinds and at any level to deal with the subtleties and confusions of the situations they face. This work established the now accepted distinction between 'hard' systems thinking, in which parts of the world are taken to be 'systems' which can be 'engineered', and 'soft' systems thinking in which the focus is on making sure the process of inquiry into real-world complexity is itself a system for learning. Systems Thinking, Systems Practice (1981) and Soft Systems Methodology in Action (1990) together with an earlier paper Towards a Systems-based Methodology for Real-World Problem Solving (1972) have long been recognized as classics in the field. Now-Peter Checkland has looked back over the three decades of SSM development, brought the account of it up to date, and reflected on the whole evolutionary process which has produced a mature SSM. SSM: A 30-Year Retrospective, here included with Soft Systems Methodology in Action closes a chapter on what is undoubtedly the most significant single research programme on the use of systems ideas in problem solving. Now retired from full-time university work, Peter Checkland continues his research as a Leverhulme Emeritus Fellow.

Critical Systems Thinking and the Management of Complexity

Michael C. Jackson
Critical Systems Thinking and the Management of Complexity Book PDF

Author : Michael C. Jackson
Publisher : John Wiley & Sons
Page : 728 pages
File Size : 55,8 Mb
Release : 2019-03-15
Category : Business & Economics
ISBN : 9781119118381

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Critical Systems Thinking and the Management of Complexity by Michael C. Jackson Pdf

The world has become increasingly networked and unpredictable. Decision makers at all levels are required to manage the consequences of complexity every day. They must deal with problems that arise unexpectedly, generate uncertainty, are characterised by interconnectivity, and spread across traditional boundaries. Simple solutions to complex problems are usually inadequate and risk exacerbating the original issues. Leaders of international bodies such as the UN, OECD, UNESCO and WHO — and of major business, public sector, charitable, and professional organizations — have all declared that systems thinking is an essential leadership skill for managing the complexity of the economic, social and environmental issues that confront decision makers. Systems thinking must be implemented more generally, and on a wider scale, to address these issues. An evaluation of different systems methodologies suggests that they concentrate on different aspects of complexity. To be in the best position to deal with complexity, decision makers must understand the strengths and weaknesses of the various approaches and learn how to employ them in combination. This is called critical systems thinking. Making use of over 25 case studies, the book offers an account of the development of systems thinking and of major efforts to apply the approach in real-world interventions. Further, it encourages the widespread use of critical systems practice as a means of ensuring responsible leadership in a complex world. Comments on a previous version of the book: Russ Ackoff: ‘the book is the best overview of the field I have seen’ JP van Gigch: ‘Jackson does a masterful job. The book is lucid ...well written and eminently readable’ Professional Manager (Journal of the Chartered Management Institute): ‘Provides an excellent guide and introduction to systems thinking for students of management’

Operational Research and Systems

Paul Keys
Operational Research and Systems Book PDF

Author : Paul Keys
Publisher : Springer Science & Business Media
Page : 273 pages
File Size : 53,6 Mb
Release : 2013-06-29
Category : Business & Economics
ISBN : 9781489906670

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Operational Research and Systems by Paul Keys Pdf

Contemporary Systems Thinking is a series of texts, each of which deals comparatively and/or critically with different aspects of holistic thinking at the frontiers of the discipline. Traditionally, writings by systems thinkers have been concerned with single theme propositions such as general systems theory, cybernetics, operations research, system dyna mics, soft systems methodology, and many others. Recently there have been attempts to fulfil a different, yet equally important, role by com parative analyses of viewpoints and approaches, each addressing dispa rate areas of study such as modeling and simulation, measurement, management, "problem-solving" methods, international relations, so cial theory, and last, but not exhaustively or least, philosophy. In a recent book these were drawn together within a multiform framework as part of an eclectic discussion-a nearly impossible task as I dis covered (see Dealing with Complexity-An Introduction to the Theory and Application of Systems Science by R. L. Flood and E. R. Carson). Neverthe less, bringing many sources together led to several achievements, among which was showing a great diversity of approaches, ideas, and application areas that systems thinking contributes to (although often with difficulties remaining unresolved). More important, however, while working on that manuscript I became aware of the need for and potential value in a series of books, each focusing in detail on the study areas mentioned above.

Critical Systems Thinking and the Management of Complexity

Michael C. Jackson
Critical Systems Thinking and the Management of Complexity Book PDF

Author : Michael C. Jackson
Publisher : John Wiley & Sons
Page : 740 pages
File Size : 55,6 Mb
Release : 2019-04-08
Category : Business & Economics
ISBN : 9781119118374

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Critical Systems Thinking and the Management of Complexity by Michael C. Jackson Pdf

From the winner of the INCOSE Pioneer Award 2022 The world has become increasingly networked and unpredictable. Decision makers at all levels are required to manage the consequences of complexity every day. They must deal with problems that arise unexpectedly, generate uncertainty, are characterised by interconnectivity, and spread across traditional boundaries. Simple solutions to complex problems are usually inadequate and risk exacerbating the original issues. Leaders of international bodies such as the UN, OECD, UNESCO and WHO — and of major business, public sector, charitable, and professional organizations — have all declared that systems thinking is an essential leadership skill for managing the complexity of the economic, social and environmental issues that confront decision makers. Systems thinking must be implemented more generally, and on a wider scale, to address these issues. An evaluation of different systems methodologies suggests that they concentrate on different aspects of complexity. To be in the best position to deal with complexity, decision makers must understand the strengths and weaknesses of the various approaches and learn how to employ them in combination. This is called critical systems thinking. Making use of over 25 case studies, the book offers an account of the development of systems thinking and of major efforts to apply the approach in real-world interventions. Further, it encourages the widespread use of critical systems practice as a means of ensuring responsible leadership in a complex world. The INCOSE Pioneer Award is presented to someone who, by their achievements in the engineering of systems, has contributed uniquely to major products or outcomes enhancing society or meeting its needs. The criteria may apply to a single outstanding outcome or a lifetime of significant achievements in effecting successful systems. Comments on a previous version of the book: Russ Ackoff: ‘the book is the best overview of the field I have seen’ JP van Gigch: ‘Jackson does a masterful job. The book is lucid ...well written and eminently readable’ Professional Manager (Journal of the Chartered Management Institute): ‘Provides an excellent guide and introduction to systems thinking for students of management’

Systems Approaches to Management

Michael C. Jackson
Systems Approaches to Management Book PDF

Author : Michael C. Jackson
Publisher : Springer Science & Business Media
Page : 455 pages
File Size : 50,8 Mb
Release : 2000-11-30
Category : Business & Economics
ISBN : 9780306465000

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Systems Approaches to Management by Michael C. Jackson Pdf

"Systems Thinking" is a new paradigm which could revolutionize management practice in the 21st century. This text provides a guide to the application of this paradigm in the field of management.

Managing Complex Systems

Howard Eisner
Managing Complex Systems Book PDF

Author : Howard Eisner
Publisher : John Wiley & Sons
Page : 277 pages
File Size : 52,8 Mb
Release : 2011-01-06
Category : Technology & Engineering
ISBN : 9781118006696

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Managing Complex Systems by Howard Eisner Pdf

Nine innovative methods to think outside the box and solve complex system problems Managing Complex Systems provides specific tools and guidance needed to be a more creative and innovative thinker. Following the author's methodology, the reader will be better able to devise and implement nontraditional solutions to seemingly intractable complex problems. By challenging the reader to think in new and creative ways, the book offers a road map to success, whether measured in terms of competitive advantage, greater market share, improved productivity, or higher profits, all based upon better solutions to difficult problems. The first four chapters set the foundation for creative thinking by exploring the nature of large-scale systems and complexity, thinking inside and outside the box, and examples of how an inventive mind solves problems in both management and scientific domains. Subsequent chapters address nine focused methods that the author has formulated to help the reader think outside the box: * Broaden and generalize * Crossover * Question conventional wisdom * Back of the envelope * Expanding the dimensions * Obversity * Remove constraints * Thinking with pictures * Systems approach Real-life examples are provided for each method that demonstrate how the approach enhances problem solving and decision making in system development and management. Following the discussion of the nine methods, the author examines group decision making as well as additional creative thinking procedures devised by other researchers, including references that assist in exploring these methods in greater detail. The author ends with a wrap-up chapter that includes a test to help readers practice their tendencies toward creative thinking skills and action with respect to solving real-world problems. The nine methods discussed in this book have broad applicability and can be used successfully by managers with a wide range of responsibilities in business and technology. For anyone who is tired of the same old approach with the same old results, this book is essential reading.

Dealing with Complexity

Robert L. Flood,Ewart R. Carson
Dealing with Complexity Book PDF

Author : Robert L. Flood,Ewart R. Carson
Publisher : Springer Science & Business Media
Page : 291 pages
File Size : 41,5 Mb
Release : 2013-03-09
Category : Business & Economics
ISBN : 9781475722352

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Dealing with Complexity by Robert L. Flood,Ewart R. Carson Pdf

Contents 11. 2. 2. Four Main Areas of Dispute 247 11. 2. 3. Summary . . . 248 11. 3. Making Sense of the Issues . . 248 11. 3. 1. Introduction . . . . 248 11. 3. 2. The Scientific Approach 248 11. 3. 3. Science and Matters of Society . 249 11. 3. 4. Summary . 251 11. 4. Tying It All Together . . . . 251 11. 4. 1. Introduction . . . . 251 11. 4. 2. A Unifying Framework 251 11. 4. 3. Critical Systems Thinking 253 11. 4. 4. Summary 254 11. 5. Conclusion 254 Questions . . . 255 REFERENCES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 257 INDEX . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 267 Chapter One SYSTEMS Origin and Evolution, Terms and Concepts 1. 1. INTRODUCTION We start this book with Theme A (see Figure P. I in the Preface), which aims to develop an essential and fundamental understanding of systems science. So, what is systems science? When asked to explain what systems science is all about, many systems scientists are confronted with a rather daunting task. The discipline tends to be presented and understood in a fragmented way and very few people hold an overview understanding of the subject matter, while also having sufficient in-depth competence in many and broad-ranging subject areas where the ideas are used. Indeed, it was precisely this difficulty that identified the need for a comprehensive well-documented account such as is presented here in Dealing with Complexity.

Systems Thinking

Cliff Whitcomb,Heidi Davidz
Systems Thinking Book PDF

Author : Cliff Whitcomb,Heidi Davidz
Publisher : MDPI
Page : 222 pages
File Size : 43,9 Mb
Release : 2021-01-20
Category : Social Science
ISBN : 9783039367962

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Systems Thinking by Cliff Whitcomb,Heidi Davidz Pdf

This Systems Thinking Special Issue contains 12 papers on the nature of systems thinking as it applies to systems engineering, systems science, system dynamics, and related fields. Systems thinking can be broadly considered the activity of thinking applied in a systems context, forming a basis for fundamental approaches to several systems disciplines, including systems engineering, systems science, and system dynamics. Although these are somewhat distinct fields, they are bound by common approaches in regard to systems. Whereas systems engineering seeks to apply a multidisciplinary, holistic approach to the development of systems, systems science seeks to understand the basics related to systems of all kinds, from natural to man-made, and system dynamics seeks to understand system structures in order to influence its dynamics. Man-made systems have become more ubiquitous and complex. The study of systems, both natural and engineered, presents new challenges and opportunities to understand emergent, dynamic behaviors that inform the process of sense-making based on systems thinking.

Asia-Pacific Security Challenges

Anthony J. Masys,Leo S.F. Lin
Asia Pacific Security Challenges Book PDF

Author : Anthony J. Masys,Leo S.F. Lin
Publisher : Springer
Page : 304 pages
File Size : 45,6 Mb
Release : 2017-09-25
Category : Nature
ISBN : 9783319617299

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Asia-Pacific Security Challenges by Anthony J. Masys,Leo S.F. Lin Pdf

This edited book examines the contemporary regional security concerns in the Asia-Pacific recognizing the ‘Butterfly effect’, the concept that small causes can have large effects: ‘the flap of a butterfly’s wings can cause a typhoon halfway around the world’. For many Asia-Pacific states, domestic security challenges are at least as important as external security considerations. Recent events (both natural disasters and man-made disasters) have pointed to the inherent physical, economic, social and political vulnerabilities that exist in the region. Both black swan events and persistent threats to security characterize the challenges within the Asia-Pacific region. Transnational security challenges such as global climate change, environmental degradation, pandemics, energy security, supply chain security, resource scarcity, terrorism and organized crime are shaping the security landscape regionally and globally. The significance of emerging transnational security challenges in the Asia-Pacific Region impact globally and conversely, security developments in those other regions affect the Asia-Pacific region.

Evolving Toolbox for Complex Project Management

Alex Gorod,Leonie Hallo,Vernon Ireland,Indra Gunawan
Evolving Toolbox for Complex Project Management Book PDF

Author : Alex Gorod,Leonie Hallo,Vernon Ireland,Indra Gunawan
Publisher : CRC Press
Page : 695 pages
File Size : 48,5 Mb
Release : 2019-10-30
Category : Business & Economics
ISBN : 9780429589287

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Evolving Toolbox for Complex Project Management by Alex Gorod,Leonie Hallo,Vernon Ireland,Indra Gunawan Pdf

This book enhances learning about complex project management principles and practices through the introduction and discussion of a portfolio of tools presented as an evolving toolbox. Throughout the book, industry practitioners examine the toolsets that are part of the toolbox to develop a broader understanding of complex project management challenges and the available tools to address them. This approach establishes a dynamic, structured platform for a comprehensive analysis and assessment of the modern, rapidly changing, multifaceted business environment to teach the next generation of project managers to successfully cope with the ever increasing complexity of the 21st century.

Systems Thinking for Instructional Designers

M. Aaron Bond,Suha Rahif Tamim,Samantha J. Blevins,Beth R. Sockman
Systems Thinking for Instructional Designers Book PDF

Author : M. Aaron Bond,Suha Rahif Tamim,Samantha J. Blevins,Beth R. Sockman
Publisher : Routledge
Page : 255 pages
File Size : 55,9 Mb
Release : 2021-12-30
Category : Education
ISBN : 9781000513424

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Systems Thinking for Instructional Designers by M. Aaron Bond,Suha Rahif Tamim,Samantha J. Blevins,Beth R. Sockman Pdf

Systems Thinking for Instructional Designers offers real-world cases that highlight how designers foster continuous improvement and manage change efforts across organizational contexts. Using a systems thinking approach, each case describes a holistic process that examines how a set of interdependent elements can be analyzed and coordinated to influence change. Instructional designers, faculty, program directors, digital learning leaders, and other development specialists will learn how systems thinking can solve authentic, real-world challenges. The book’s rich narratives cover both successes and failures of meaningful growth, paradigm shifts, and large-scale problem-solving in a variety of settings, including education and industry.

From Silos to Network: A New Kind of Science for Management

Domenico Lepore,Angela Montgomery,Giovanni Siepe,Francesco Siepe
From Silos to Network A New Kind of Science for Management Book PDF

Author : Domenico Lepore,Angela Montgomery,Giovanni Siepe,Francesco Siepe
Publisher : Springer Nature
Page : 107 pages
File Size : 49,7 Mb
Release : 2023-11-02
Category : Science
ISBN : 9783031402289

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From Silos to Network: A New Kind of Science for Management by Domenico Lepore,Angela Montgomery,Giovanni Siepe,Francesco Siepe Pdf

This book provides the conceptual framework and a comprehensive guide to the principles, methods and tools for managing organizations. The authors introduce “New Knowledge” by presenting a methodology, 'The Decalogue’, that portrays a genuinely systemic approach for managing complexity in organizations and Value Chains through focusing on the management of a leverage point called constraint (Theory of Constraints) and the understanding of variation (Theory of Profound Knowledge). This systemic approach leverages the intrinsic process and project-based nature of the work of organizations. Functional hierarchy is replaced by a network-like structure, driven by the goal of the system and governed by a new design of the organization called “Network of Projects”. The transition towards the Network of Projects requires a cognitive shift in the way we view and put to good use human talent and ingenuity as well as a powerful algorithm to orchestrate and synchronize individual competencies. The authors discuss at length this algorithm, how the Theory of Constraints helps in the cognitive challenges of this shift and also how technology can be used fruitfully to assist with the operational implications. The target audience for this book is made up of leaders and managers of organizations as well as researchers and practitioners in the field of management and organizational design.

Complex System Governance

Charles B. Keating,Polinpapilinho F. Katina,Charles W. Chesterman Jr.,James C. Pyne
Complex System Governance Book PDF

Author : Charles B. Keating,Polinpapilinho F. Katina,Charles W. Chesterman Jr.,James C. Pyne
Publisher : Springer Nature
Page : 592 pages
File Size : 55,7 Mb
Release : 2022-04-18
Category : Science
ISBN : 9783030938529

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Complex System Governance by Charles B. Keating,Polinpapilinho F. Katina,Charles W. Chesterman Jr.,James C. Pyne Pdf

This book explores Complex System Governance (CSG)—an emerging field concerned with the design, execution, and evolution of essential functions necessary to ensure continued viability of a system. The book focuses on three primary development areas to better understand and utilize current developments CSG. First, the conceptual foundations for CSG are developed, from systems theory, management cybernetics, and governance. Second, a set of critical CSG topics are examined from conceptual as well as practice perspectives. Third, several development and application issues are discussed. Ultimately, CSG is positioned as an emerging field with strong theoretical grounding and significant implications for improving practices and performance to better address complex systems and their problems.

Critical Systems Thinking

Michael C. Jackson
Critical Systems Thinking Book PDF

Author : Michael C. Jackson
Publisher : John Wiley & Sons
Page : 261 pages
File Size : 40,5 Mb
Release : 2024-05-13
Category : Computers
ISBN : 9781394203598

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Critical Systems Thinking by Michael C. Jackson Pdf

CRITICAL SYSTEMSTHINKING Understand the full range of systems approaches and how to use them with this innovative overview. Leaders and managers face increasing complexity and uncertainty because technical, organizational, socio-cultural, political, and environmental issues have become intensely interconnected. Systems thinking is recognized as the essential competence for managing complexity. As the demand for systems thinking grows, however, the fragmentation of the field into different methodologies has become a potential liability. Critical systems thinking (CST) shows how this diversity can be a strength rather than a weakness by revealing how different systems methodologies address various aspects of complexity and how they can be used in combination to resolve the messiest of wicked problems. Critical Systems Thinking offers, in a single volume, an account of the value of systems thinking and CST in the modern world, an explanation of the pragmatic philosophy and expansion in mindset necessary to embrace CST, and detailed instructions on how to undertake critical systems practice (CSP) using the variety of systems approaches to navigate multi-dimensional complexity. Readers will find: An accessible introduction to systems thinking and CST. A description and critique of the best-known systems methodologies. A guide to the mindset changes, the steps required, and the toolkit necessary to undertake successful CSP. Case studies and examples of CSP. A discussion of the nature of systemic leadership. Critical Systems Thinking is ideal for leaders and managers in government, business, the public sector, the professions, and beyond who want to understand the potential of systems thinking and use it in their work. It is essential for systems researchers and practitioners who want a deeper understanding of the field.