Introduction

Abstract

Today we find ourselves confronted with problems of dynamic complexity and interdependency. Such ‘wicked problems’ and messes are seemingly intractable and are 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 crisis management. 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. Systems Thinking and Soft Operations Research has had great success in contributing to the management of complexity. This book captures current trends and developments in the field of systems thinking and soft operations research to support problem framing.