Adventures in complexity : for organisations near the edge of chaos

"The focus of Adventures in Complexity is not so much organisations as the 'life of organisations'. Author Lesley Kuhn sees organisations as 'collectives of human activity' and here describes how complexity theory can be applied in and to organisations. Complexity theory acknowledges that people are self-organising, dynamic and emergent beings who are capable of discerning thoughtfulness and innovative responses to change both within and between organisations. It argues that sustainability is best served by tapping into this entire pool of potential. It embraces uncertainty and change. It uses terms like non-equilibrium and turbulence to show that, when systems reach 'the edge of chaos', they are most likely to exhibit creative, innovative responses and new patterns and structures are most likely to emerge. In the current unpredictable climate many organisations may consider themselves 'near the edge of chaos'. Yet most will not realise that this is where the greatest potential for success lies. Lesley Kuhn introduces the principles of complexity theory in a clear, concise and accessible way through discussion of those concepts and metaphors that are most useful in understanding organisational life. This provides an excellent foundation from which to apply these principles to organisations and much of the book is dedicated to complexity in practice."