Systemic Business Intervention to Treat Complex Problems in Companies

It is part of the daily routine of companies to deal with different problems and, among them, the so-called complexes, characterized by the existence of multiple parties, different perspectives and objectives, conflicting interests, intangible aspects, and uncertainties. Their solution is strategic in nature and usually involves great opportunities. In the search for solutions to problems, companies use different approaches from different paradigmatic origins. The business management epistemology brings approaches such as Continuous Improvement, Total Quality and Lean Thinking aimed at solving problems and improving processes. In systemic epistemology, approaches such as Systemic Intervention, Critical Systems Heuristics and Theory of Distinctions, Systems, Relationships and Perspectives seek solutions that, in addition to bringing consistent improvements, aim to develop the critical and systemic thinking skills of those involved. Thinking about the need for an approach to deal with complex problems that adapts to the culture and the needs inherent in the business environment, the objective of this paper is to present the critical-systemic intervention method. To this end, systemic, critical, and business management approaches used by companies to deal with problems and promote the continuous improvement of their processes are explored. Afterwards, the method is presented and as a result there is a hybrid intervention approach that aims to support companies in obtaining meaningful solutions for results, sustainable in the long term and that promotes continuous learning and development of the organizational culture.