Wicked World advocates the need to acknowledge the complex contexts in which managers, professionals and policymakers operate. Conventional tools do not serve us well in these new contexts and regularly aggravate the situation. This book offers a systemic perspective in exploring complex challenges and a sensemaking framework to deal with interconnected, persistent problems. Looking beyond the problem; seeking deeper patterns and linkages to other problems; realizing that cause and effect may not be obvious or close by; and that small changes can have major impacts…these are essential steps in operating in a wicked world.
It is time for new perceptions and concepts that can support us. Systems and complexity theories are a starting point for this book. A comprehensive sensemaking framework can guide us in dealing with challenges such as digitalization and robotization impacting businesses, institutions, homes and society as a whole; social inequity and polarizing discourses; obesity, burn-out and cybersecurity.
The first step is to become ‘systems savvy’ – Wicked World takes you on this journey.
Author(s): Karel van Berkel, Anu Manickam
Publisher: Noordhoff, Routledge
Year: 2020
Cover
Half Title
Title Page
Copyright Page
Table of Contents
Preface
Introduction
Chapter 1: Wicked world
Three worldviews
The controllable world
The bubble world
The complex world
Systems intelligence and complexity theories
Systems and systems thinking
Complex adaptive systems
Systems dynamics
Systems diagrams
Change
Traditional approach
Changing differently
Two operating systems
In conclusion
Chapter 2: Systems analysis
Systems analysis framework
Identity
History and environmental factors
Stakeholders and perceptions
Developing patterns and routines
Implicit and explicit rules
Sensitivity
Complex systems dynamics
Drivers of change
Weak signals
Attractors
Responsivity
Ecosystems
Fitness to landscape
Differences that make the difference
Self-organization
Resilience and sustainability
Connectivity
Co-evolution
Transformative interactions
Networks
Engaging with societal challenges
Boundary crossing links
In conclusion
Chapter 3: Systems innovation
Systems innovation framework
Trust, transparency and integrity
Shared awareness and perspectives
Collective sensemaking
Smart systems interventions
Top 7 smart interventions
Mobilizing allies for change
Timing and rhythm
Listening and comprehension
Sense of urgency
Create clarity
In conclusion
Chapter 4: Policy innovation
Traditional approaches
Barriers to change
New approach
Wicked problems and global policy innovation
The complexity of the COVID-19 crisis
The way forward – what can be done differently?
Strengthening regions
In conclusion
Chapter 5: Who is in charge?
Leading in complexity
Shifts in the leadership bubble
Span of control: power and influence
The playing field
Who is in charge?
Systems innovation: attitude, demeanour and behaviour
Competences for systems innovation
Value driven futures
In conclusion
Chapter 6: Moving forward
References
Index
Notes
