The World Works Through Systems

The word system originates from the Greek verb sunistanai, meaning to cause to stand together or to combine.  Modern definitions include: a group of interacting, interrelated, or interdependent elements forming a complex whole; and, a functionally related group of elements.  Complex systems are characterized by nonlinear dynamics (small changes can have BIG effects) and emergent properties (system attributes cannot be explained by the mere sum of the parts).  These systems are called Complex Adaptive Systems (CASs).  Examples include stock markets, gardens, human beings, weather systems, and human organizations.  Diverse individual agents are massively entangled yet adaptable and resilient. CASs are capable of undergoing spontaneous self-organization and leaps in performance.  From this point of view, we can begin to understand the dynamic paradigm required to allow an organization to flourish.  Spend some time researching Complex Adaptive Systems and return to share your thoughts.