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Tackling Complexity Gilbert Probst

Tackling Complexity By Gilbert Probst

Tackling Complexity by Gilbert Probst


$79.99
Condition - Very Good
Only 2 left

Summary

This book provides a novel systems-thinking approach to solving complex problems in socio-political and business environments. It is a must-read for any leader or strategist looking for real-world solutions to policy challenges.

Tackling Complexity Summary

Tackling Complexity: A Systemic Approach for Decision Makers by Gilbert Probst

Our socio-economic systems continue to grow and evolve. We need to acknowledge that, consequently, our decisions often fail - they are ineffective and create unexpected side effects. The speed of execution is increasing constantly and markets and systems respond almost immediately, making decision-making challenging. There is little or no room for failure.

This important new book analyses real world strategy and policy challenges, addressing the interconnectedness of the markets/systems we live in. It provides a step-by-step approach using systems thinking to solve complex problems in socio-political as well as business environment. It proposes a technique with which to better understand the problems and the context in which they arise, and tools to directly inform each step of the decision-making process. The book explores the main innovation that systemic thinking introduces - the emphasis on defining the problem creating system, which is made up of interacting parts, rather than prioritizing events that need immediate fixing.

The case studies, examples and the approach proposed can be used to better understand reality and its complexity, and to integrate stakeholders for a better solution. Practically, it can be used to identify problems, analyse their boundaries, design interventions, forecast and measure their expected impacts, implement them and monitor and evaluate their success/failure. The book touches upon global issues related to policy making and strategic management, as well as issues related to sustainable development for both the public and private sector.

Tackling Complexity Reviews

Tackling Complexity is a new book by Gilbert Probst and Andrea M. Bassi. It is published by Greenleaf Publishing and they provided the book for review. Initially, I was excited as I have read a number of books about decision-making and even wrote my own, Taking Aim for Better Decision-Making. Sadly, I wasn't very far into the book until I realized that there is a huge difference between how ivory tower academics approach decision-making and how every day practitioners approach decision-making. Probst and Bassi suggest that, our decisions often fail but they fail to recognize the magnitude of the problem as reported by Paul C. Nutt in his book, Why Decisions Fail. After 20 years of research, Nutt came to the conclusion that, decisions fail half of the time. This is a huge problem that deserves our attention and practical approaches that will improve outcomes. Probst and Bassi give lip service to the idea that there is a difference between complicated systems and complex systems wherein there are often dynamics beyond our control. They then proceed to explain their systemic approach which is highly analytical and top end driven. Stuart Crainer in his book The 75 Greatest Management Decisions Ever Made wrote, Alluring though they are the trouble with decision-making theories is that reality is often more confused and messy than a neat model can allow for. My research leads me to believe that all analytical decision-making models are subject to imperfect knowledge, unintended consequences and luck. While not very scientific, it has led me to believe as does Paul Nutt that the best practices have a flow that can be related to the appreciative inquiry stages outlined by Copperrider and Srivastva, 1987. J. Edward Russo and Paul J.H. Schoemaker in their book, Winning Decisions talked about how traditional organizations viewed implementation secondary to planning and analysis while the newer approach places more weight on learning and adjustment in real time. for me this has been proven by the iteration process common to most successful internet sites. Earlier this week the Wall Street Journal reported on -- Bob Cannon Decision Making Today

About Gilbert Probst

GILBERT PROBST is Managing Director, Leadership Office and Academic Affairs at the World Economic Forum. ANDREA M. BASSI is the founder and CEO of KnowlEdge Srl.

Table of Contents

Foreword Paul Polman, CEO of Unilever; Vice-Chairman (and next Chairman), WBCSD Foreword Klaus Schwab, Founder and Executive Chairman, World Economic Forum 1. Introduction 2. Case study: why a systemic approach matters 3. Phase 1: Problem identification Case study 1: Problem identification with systems thinking: the creation of the Ethiopia Commodity Exchange Case study 2: Representing and analysing dynamic complexity to design effective policies: fossil fuel subsidy reform 5. Phase 3: Strategy / Policy assessment Case study 3 Reducing risks and maximising profits with systemic strategy assessment: Nestle 6. Phase 4: Decision-making and implementation Case study 4 Multi-stakeholder decision-making in relief operations: the Agility CSR programme 7. Phase 5: Monitoring and evaluation Case study 5 Monitoring managers' commitment: Deutsche Bank 8. Conclusions Annex: Overview of key tools References

Additional information

GOR007531141
9781783530816
1783530812
Tackling Complexity: A Systemic Approach for Decision Makers by Gilbert Probst
Used - Very Good
Hardback
Taylor & Francis Ltd
20140131
188
N/A
Book picture is for illustrative purposes only, actual binding, cover or edition may vary.
This is a used book - there is no escaping the fact it has been read by someone else and it will show signs of wear and previous use. Overall we expect it to be in very good condition, but if you are not entirely satisfied please get in touch with us

Customer Reviews - Tackling Complexity