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Theoretical approaches to managing complexity in organizations: A comparative analysis

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  • Luz E. Bohórquez Arévaloa
  • Angela Espinosa

Abstract

This paper aims to identify the differences and similarities in thewayto explain self-organization from the different theories of complex systems used in management, which we have grouped as complex systems theories, complex adaptive systems (CAS) and organizational cybernetics. For this purpose we suggest three parallel and complementary dimensions to delimit the conceptual spaces where these theories can be placed. Using this classification as an analytical lens we summarize the core arguments suggested by each of these complex systems approaches, regarding the ideas of emergence and new order. This analysis helps us to conclude that the three theories coincide in their interest for studying nonlinear complex systems, but diverge in the nature of the complex problems studied. Finally we analyze the consequences that recognizing the similarities and differences between these approaches have, when using them for the study and research of social and business organizations and their management.

Suggested Citation

  • Luz E. Bohórquez Arévaloa & Angela Espinosa, 2015. "Theoretical approaches to managing complexity in organizations: A comparative analysis," Estudios Gerenciales, Universidad Icesi, January.
    • Handle: RePEc:col:000129:012486
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    File URL: http://www.icesi.edu.co/revistas/index.php/estudios_gerenciales/article/view/1923
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Ralph D. Stacey, 1995. "The science of complexity: An alternative perspective for strategic change processes," Strategic Management Journal, Wiley Blackwell, vol. 16(6), pages 477-495.
    2. A Paucar-Caceres & A Espinosa, 2011. "Management science methodologies in environmental management and sustainability: discourses and applications," Journal of the Operational Research Society, Palgrave Macmillan;The OR Society, vol. 62(9), pages 1601-1620, September.
    3. Pierpaolo Andriani & Bill McKelvey, 2009. "Perspective ---From Gaussian to Paretian Thinking: Causes and Implications of Power Laws in Organizations," Organization Science, INFORMS, vol. 20(6), pages 1053-1071, December.
    4. Chris Mowles & Ralph Stacey & Douglas Griffin, 2008. "What contribution can insights from the complexity sciences make to the theory and practice of development management?," Journal of International Development, John Wiley & Sons, Ltd., vol. 20(6), pages 804-820.
    5. Max Boisot & John Child, 1999. "Organizations as Adaptive Systems in Complex Environments: The Case of China," Organization Science, INFORMS, vol. 10(3), pages 237-252, June.
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    Cited by:

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    2. Lukáš Copuš & Peter Madzík & Helena Šajgalíková & Karol Čarnogurský, 2023. "Is There a Possibility to Characterize an Organizational Culture by Its Selected Cultural Dimensions?," SAGE Open, , vol. 13(4), pages 21582440231, October.

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    More about this item

    Keywords

    Self-organization; Complexity; Organizational cybernetics; Complex adaptive systems; Sciences of complexity;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • M10 - Business Administration and Business Economics; Marketing; Accounting; Personnel Economics - - Business Administration - - - General

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