When Changes are Complex

Restructuring programmes, culture change initiatives, mergers and acquisitions, and strategic-led change can be seen as complex changes. These changes are complex because of all the individuals, layers of activity, and factors that make it difficult to predict outcomes.

It is difficult to identify when a change is complex. However, we can seek to understand the benefits of understanding the complexity of the change. In today’s organisations, managers are often trained to think in analytical and rational ways. Current management thinking is focused on motivational goals and behaviour and scientific methods like project management and process engineering. This type of thinking does not leave much space for complex problems or changes. When managers begin to appreciate how complex processes work, they can begin to think about the different needs they should be fulfilling as leaders.

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