Critical Systems Thinking and the Management of Complexity

Business & Finance, Management & Leadership, Management Science
Cover of the book Critical Systems Thinking and the Management of Complexity by Michael C. Jackson, Wiley
View on Amazon View on AbeBooks View on Kobo View on B.Depository View on eBay View on Walmart
Author: Michael C. Jackson ISBN: 9781119118398
Publisher: Wiley Publication: March 15, 2019
Imprint: Wiley Language: English
Author: Michael C. Jackson
ISBN: 9781119118398
Publisher: Wiley
Publication: March 15, 2019
Imprint: Wiley
Language: English

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’

View on Amazon View on AbeBooks View on Kobo View on B.Depository View on eBay View on Walmart

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’

More books from Wiley

Cover of the book Scenario-based e-Learning by Michael C. Jackson
Cover of the book Organische Chemie kompakt für Dummies by Michael C. Jackson
Cover of the book Caring for Children with Special Healthcare Needs and Their Families by Michael C. Jackson
Cover of the book Introduction to Computational Chemistry by Michael C. Jackson
Cover of the book Marketing Kit for Dummies by Michael C. Jackson
Cover of the book Integrative Play Therapy by Michael C. Jackson
Cover of the book Lotus Notes 6 For Dummies by Michael C. Jackson
Cover of the book Micromechanics of Fracture and Damage by Michael C. Jackson
Cover of the book Fit by Michael C. Jackson
Cover of the book Winning at Active Management by Michael C. Jackson
Cover of the book Plumbing, Electricity, Acoustics by Michael C. Jackson
Cover of the book A History of Modernist Literature by Michael C. Jackson
Cover of the book Bioethics for Beginners by Michael C. Jackson
Cover of the book Multiscale Simulations and Mechanics of Biological Materials by Michael C. Jackson
Cover of the book Theology by Michael C. Jackson
We use our own "cookies" and third party cookies to improve services and to see statistical information. By using this website, you agree to our Privacy Policy