DARWIN, John Anthony (1998). Complexity theory and fuzzy logic in strategic management : searching the pattern that connects. Post-Doctoral, Sheffield Hallam University. [Thesis]
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Abstract
The thesis begins by discussing the Modern Paradigm, which, it is argued, forms the
underpinning to much contemporary management thinking. This in turn is seen as
having its own foundation, the Cartesian-Newtonian Synthesis. It is argued that this
does not form an adequate basis for strategic management, and the thesis then
draws upon four main streams of thinking: complexity theory, fuzzy logic, the debate
on power in organizations, and critical theory. The material developed from these
four streams is integrated, thereby developing a number of principles for strategic
management. The context within which most of the case studies are set is also
outlined, by reviewing the recent history and present situation in local government.
We then turn to the practical implications. When teaching strategic management
and change, a frequent response from managers is that they are comfortable with
the rational planning approach, which they find straightforward in approach, and its
tools and techniques readily usable. But when we get on to all this other stuff ...
what does it mean, and how is it used? This relates also to my own experience as
a manager, particularly in local government. The practical implications are
important, and this whole thesis can be seen as an action research programme, with
practical interventions enriching the theoretical perspective, which in turn has fed
back into practice.
This discussion begins by considering methodology, and identifies three interlinked
methods - action research, action learning and whole systems intervention. These
are related to critical theory, and it is argued that these approaches provide a
practice based upon the theoretical themes developed earlier. This is followed by a
discussion of action research, exploring one case study in some depth, chosen
because it helps to illustrate both the strengths and the potential limitations of a
critical approach to action research. The work is assessed, and its implication for
contemporary management are considered, drawing also upon a current action
research project concerned with the roles of trade unions in the regions of Europe.
The thesis then turns to what can best be seen as an extended action research
project concerned specifically with whole systems intervention. It examines the
extent to which this can be developed and undertaken on the basis of the principles
developed in the thesis. Five case studies are presented in which Search
Conferences and/or ColourFlow Dialogue have been used. Reflecting the original
remit of the thesis, these case studies have a common link in local government.
Two involve local authorities directly; one concerns local government politicians and
their political party, and one involves an area of local authority activity being moved
into independent Trust status. The fifth has a more tenuous link with local
government: it is a voluntary body which receives significant funding from Councils,
but is otherwise independent; it is included because it was the first such exercise
undertaken, and brought with it significant personal learning.
Finally, the thesis reviews the findings, considers their implications, and draws
conclusions. Thus the purpose of this thesis is both to present an approach to
strategic management and organizational development which is richer than those
premised on the Modern Paradigm, and to argue that this is more than a set of
interesting or provocative ideas - it is an approach which can be put into practice.
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