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Complexity and Management Mailing List

Complex-M reflects the belief that a shared language based on the new science of complexity can have an important role in managerial sensemaking. The use of complexity theory can change the way managers think about the problems they face. Instead of competing in a game or a war, managers of a complexity thinking enterprise are trying to find their way on an ever changing, ever turbulent landscape. Such a conception of their organizations' basic task can, in turn, change the day-to-day decisions made by management. The most productive applications of complexity language have to do with new possibilities for innovation. These possibilities require new ways of thinking, but old models of thinking persist long after they are productive. New ways of thinking don't just happen; they require both discussion and support.

COMPLEX-M carries messages directed to: · Understanding complexity and complex adaptive systems, such as the economy, business, and the marketplace. · Developing techniques for organizations to examine their models, metaphors, and beliefs, and to adapt new ones as conditions change. · Creating strategies for businesses to interact with the unexpected, accidental, and ambiguous in their environments. · Resolving the needs for both stability and creativity, and the institutional tensions between "authorized" and "innovative." · Examining individual issues and case studies as they emerge.

This forum is a great place to learn about complexity and management, share experiences, ask for opinions, and get advice on the situations facing you in day-to-day management. Please remember that the people you meet here are speaking from their own experiences and theories. There are people on this list of all ages, academic backgrounds, nationalities, employment status, faiths, and walks of life. Please show respect for cultural differences and try to find ways of expressing yourself without resorting to offensive language. Our goal is an honest exchange of ideas which can lead to emergent understanding.

To subscribe to the list or to alter your subscription options please go to http://groups.yahoo.com/group/ISCE_complex-M/.

This list is not affiliated with any particular academic or consulting organization. It is run by just "regular" people. L-Soft International provides the facilities to run the list through their EASE HOME service, but they have no other tie to the COMPLEX-M list, and are not responsible for the content. If you have a concern with the operations of the list please contact Michael Lissack.

Note that we maintain archives on the web going back to January 1, 2003. If you desire access to earlier archives (this list began in March 1997) they are available on CD. Please send all requests for the CD archives to Michael Lissack.