Towards a general hybrid theory in wicked problem structuring part 1: the foundation

Kybernetes ◽  
2020 ◽  
Vol ahead-of-print (ahead-of-print) ◽  
Author(s):  
Maurice Yolles
Keyword(s):  
General Theory ◽  
Agency Theory ◽  
Hybrid Approach ◽  
Wicked Problems ◽  
Academic Disciplines ◽  
Wicked Problem ◽  
Problem Structuring ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Autonomous Agency ◽  
Relational Paradigm

Purpose This paper has two parts, namely, Part 1 and Part 2. The purpose of this paper (Part 1) is to explain an adaptive relational paradigm that can efficaciously respond to the complex issues in wicked problems. A relational paradigm can work across the disciplines and fields that characterise wicked problems. It is also methodologically plural – that is it uses various inquiry instruments together. It becomes a hybrid approach when involving narratives and structured processes enabling the adopted instruments to converge to a coherent (living) story. The purpose of Part 2 will be to provide a theoretical framework that with illustration responds to Part 1. Design/methodology/approach Wicked problems and their issues do not respect academic disciplines, and as they are multidisciplinary, they require a cross-disciplinary approach when seeking resolution. Autonomous agency theory is adopted capable of structuring cross-disciplinary inquiry processes and formulating a hybrid inquiry paradigm. The paper sets up a narrative agency approachable of delivering a structure that results in a general theory of hybrid inquiry. Findings The paradigm, which traditionally defines a field of study conceptualises and regulates approaches that enable inquiry into behavioural systems. Mono-disciplinary, they are not suitable for the resolution of issues that arise from cross-disciplinary wicked problems. To resolve this, a relational paradigm has been defined within which sits a cross-disciplinary hybrid inquiry system. A general theory of hybrid inquiry has been offered. It is shown that agency theory can successfully embrace a relational paradigm. Research limitations/implications To determine the limitations of this theory there is a need to provide exemplars, which is currently premature. Another outcome is to centre on modes of practice in hybrid inquiry, but there is insufficient space for this here. Originality/value This paper makes an original contribution by formulating a structured approach on the creation of a relational paradigm capable of supporting hybrid inquiry. It also adopts cross-disciplinary theory to make its case for a relational paradigm, recognising that wicked problems are cross-disciplinary. As part of the regulatory process, it connects Rittel’s IBIS schema intended to resolve wicked problems issues and the Johari Window and explains how they would relate. A means is suggested for determining the degree of undecidability of wicked problems issues, and hence, that of the models that inquiry produces. This uses formative characteristics that define a modelling space. The paper also adopts Husserl’s concept or lifeworld, which acts as a channel for complex narrative theory through which regulative processes are enabled.

Towards a general hybrid theory in wicked problem structuring part 2: the relational agency paradigm

Kybernetes ◽  
2020 ◽  
Vol ahead-of-print (ahead-of-print) ◽  
Author(s):  
Maurice Yolles
Keyword(s):  
General Theory ◽  
Agency Theory ◽  
Wicked Problems ◽  
Living System ◽  
Academic Disciplines ◽  
Wicked Problem ◽  
Problem Structuring ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Autonomous Agency ◽  
Relational Paradigm

Purpose This paper has two parts. The purpose of part 1 explains the need for an adaptive paradigm that can efficaciously respond to the complex issues in wicked problems and the fundamentals that this requires were identified. It involved the formulation of a cross-disciplinary relational methodologically plural paradigm with certain properties. The purpose in this Part 2 is to provide a theoretical framework. It adopts autonomous agency theory in which paradigm holders collectively act as “living system” agencies and deliver “living stories” to create coherence in addressing wicked problem issues, and then adopts hybrid structures to address this need. Design/methodology/approach The approach seeks to address wicked problem issues. Wicked problems do not respect academic disciplines, requiring a cross-disciplinary approach. Autonomous agency theory is adopted capable of structuring cross-disciplinary inquiry processes and formulating a hybrid inquiry paradigm. The paper sets up a narrative that delivers a structured essay resulting in a general theory of hybrid inquiry. This paradigm is explored in detail, considering how it can be applied to wicked problems. Findings The paradigm, which traditionally defines a field of study conceptualises and regulates approaches that enable inquiry into behavioural systems. Mono-disciplinary, they are not suitable for the resolution of issues that arise from cross-disciplinary wicked problems. To resolve this, a relational paradigm has been defined within which sits a cross-disciplinary hybrid inquiry system. A general theory of hybrid inquiry has been offered, with an appropriate illustration in ecosystem management. It is shown that agency theory can successfully embrace a relational paradigm. Research limitations/implications To determine the limitations of this theory, there is a need to provide exemplars, which is currently premature. Another outcome is to centre on modes of practice in hybrid inquiry but there is insufficient space for this here. Originality/value This paper makes an original contribution by formulating a structured approach on the creation of a relational paradigm capable of supporting hybrid inquiry. It also adopts cross-disciplinary theory to make its case for a relational paradigm, recognising that wicked problems are cross-disciplinary. As part of the regulatory process it connects Rittel’s issue-based information system (IBIS) schema intended to resolve wicked problems issues and the Johari Window and explains how they would relate. A means is suggested for determining the degree of undecidability of wicked problems issues and hence that of the models that inquiry produces. This uses formative characteristics that define a modelling space. The paper also adopts Husserl’s concept or lifeworld, which acts as a channel for complex narrative theory through which regulative processes are enabled.

A general theory of generic modelling and paradigm shifts: part 3 – the extension

Kybernetes ◽  
2015 ◽  
Vol 44 (2) ◽  
pp. 311-328 ◽  
Author(s):  
Maurice Yolles ◽  
Gerhard Fink
Keyword(s):  
General Theory ◽  
Agency Theory ◽  
Higher Order ◽  
Living Systems ◽  
Paradigm Shifts ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Simplex Model ◽  
Complex Phenomena ◽  
Cultural Agency ◽  
Simplex Models

Purpose – Anticipating behaviour and responding to the needs of complexity and problematic issues requires modelling to facilitate analysis and diagnosis. Using arguments of anticipation as an imperative for inquiry, the purpose of this paper is to introduce generic modelling for living systems theory, and assigns the number of generic constructs to orders of simplex modelling. An nth simplex order rests in an nth order simplex cybernetic space. A general modelling theory of higher orders of simplexity is given, where each higher order responds to every generic construct involved, the properties of which determining the rules of the complex system being that is represented. Higher orders of simplexity also explain greater degrees of complexity relatively simply, and give rise to the development of new paradigms that are better able to explain perceived complex phenomena. Design/methodology/approach – This is Part 3 of three linked papers. Using principles that arise from Schwarz’s living systems set within a framework provided by cultural agency theory, and with a rationale provided by Rosen’s and Dubois’ concepts of anticipation, the papers develop a general modelling theory of simplex orders. They show that with the development of new higher orders, paradigm shifts can occur that become responsible for new ways of seeing and resolving stubborn problematic issues. Part 1 established the fundamentals for a theory of modelling associated with cybernetic orders. Using this, in this Part 2 the authors established the principles of cybernetic orders using simplex modelling. This included a general theory of generic modelling. In this Part 3 the authors extend this, developing a fourth order simplex model, and exploring the potential for higher orders using recursive techniques through cultural agency theory. The authors also explore various forms of emergence. Findings – Cultural agency theory can be used to generate higher simplex through principles of recursion, and hence to create a potential for the generation of families of new paradigms. The idea of conceptual emergence is also tied to the rise of new paradigms. Research limitations/implications – The use of higher order simplex models to represent complex situations provides the ability to condense explanation concerning the development of particular system behaviours, and hence simplify the way in which the authors analyse, diagnose and anticipate behaviour in complex situations. Illustration is also given showing how the theory can explain the emergence of new paradigms. Practical implications – Cultural agency can be used to structure problem issues that may otherwise be problematic, within both a top-down and bottom-up approach. It may also be used to assist in establishing behavioural anticipation given an appropriate modelling approach. It may also be used to improve and compress explanation of complex situations. Originality/value – A new theory of simplex orders arises from the new concept of generic modelling, illustrating cybernetic order. This permits the possibility of improved analysis and diagnosis of problematic situations belonging to complex situations through the use of higher order simplex models, and facilitates improvement in behavioural anticipation.

scholarly journals Uncovering wicked problem’s system structure: seeing the forest for the trees

2017 ◽  
Vol 7 (1) ◽  
pp. 51-73 ◽  
Author(s):  
Ann-Marie Kennedy ◽  
Sommer Kapitan ◽  
Neha Bajaj ◽  
Angelina Bakonyi ◽  
Sean Sands
Keyword(s):  
Systems Thinking ◽  
Wicked Problems ◽  
System Structure ◽  
Wicked Problem ◽  
Illustrative Case ◽  
Social Mechanisms ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Effective Interventions ◽  
Big Picture ◽  
Develop Strategy

Purpose This paper aims to use systems thinking, systems theory and Camillus’ framework for responding to wicked problems to provide social marketers with a theoretically based framework for approaching strategy formation for wicked problems. The paper treats fast fashion as an illustrative case and takes a step back from implementation to provide a framework for analysing and gaining understanding of wicked problem system structure for social marketers to then plan more effective interventions. The proposed approach is intended as a theory-based tool for social marketing practitioners to uncover system structure and analyse the wicked problems they face. Design/methodology/approach Following Layton, this work provides theoretically based guidelines for analysing the black box of how to develop and refine strategy as first proposed in Camillus’ (2008) framework for responding to wicked issues. Findings The prescription thus developed for approaching wicked problems’ system structure revolves around identifying the individuals, groups or entities that make up the system involved in the wicked problem, and then determining which social mechanisms most clearly drive each entity and which outcomes motivate these social mechanisms, before determining which role the entities play as either incumbent, challenger or governance and which social narratives drive each role’s participation in the wicked problem. Originality/value This paper shows that using systems thinking can help social marketers to gain big picture thinking and develop strategy for responding to complex issues, while considering the consequences of interventions.

A general theory of generic modelling and paradigm shifts: part 1 – the fundamentals

Kybernetes ◽  
2015 ◽  
Vol 44 (2) ◽  
pp. 283-298 ◽  
Author(s):  
Maurice Yolles ◽  
Gerhard Fink
Keyword(s):  
General Theory ◽  
Agency Theory ◽  
Higher Order ◽  
Living Systems ◽  
Paradigm Shifts ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Simplex Model ◽  
Complex Phenomena ◽  
Cultural Agency ◽  
Simplex Models

Purpose – Anticipating behaviour and responding to the needs of complexity and the problematic issues that they can generate requires modelling to facilitate analysis and diagnosis. Using arguments of anticipation as an imperative for inquiry, the purpose of this paper is to introduce generic modelling for living systems theory, and assigns the number of generic constructs to orders of simplex modelling. An nth simplex order rests in an nth order simplex cybernetic space. A general modelling theory of higher orders of simplexity is given, where each higher order responds to every generic construct involved, the properties of which determining the rules of the complex system being that is represented. Higher orders of simplexity also explain greater degrees of complexity relatively simply, and give rise to the development of new paradigms that are better able to explain perceived complex phenomena. Design/methodology/approach – This is part 1 of three linked papers. Using principles that arise from Schwarz’s living systems set within a framework provided by cultural agency theory, and with a rationale provided by Rosen’s and Dubois’ concepts of anticipation, the papers develops a general modelling theory of simplex orders. It shows that with the development of new higher orders, paradigm shifts can occur that become responsible for new ways of seeing and resolving stubborn problematic issues. The paper is composed of two parts. Part 1 establishes the fundamentals for a theory of modelling associated with cybernetic orders. Using this, part 2 establishes the principles of cybernetic orders using simplex modelling. This will include a general theory of generic modelling. Part 3 extends this, developing a fourth order simplex model, and exploring the potential for higher orders using recursive techniques through cultural agency theory. Findings – Cultural agency theory can be used to generate higher simplex through principles of recursion, and hence to create a potential for the generation of families of new paradigms. The idea of conceptual emergence is also tied to the rise of new paradigms. Research limitations/implications – The use of higher order simplex models to represent complex situations provides the ability to condense explanation concerning the development of particular system behaviours, and hence simplify the way in which the authors analyse, diagnose and anticipate behaviour in complex situations. Illustration is also given showing how the theory can explain the emergence of new paradigms. Practical implications – Cultural agency can be used to structure problem issues that may otherwise be problematic, within both a top-down and bottom up approach. It may also be used to assist in establishing behavioural anticipation given an appropriate modelling approach. It may also be used to improve and compress explanation of complex situations. Originality/value – A new theory of simplex orders arises from the new concept of generic modelling, illustrating cybernetic order. This permits the possibility of improved analysis and diagnosis of problematic situations belonging to complex situations through the use of higher order simplex models, and facilitates improvement in behavioural anticipation.

scholarly journals Addressing food insecurity: a systemic innovation approach

2017 ◽  
Vol 13 (3) ◽  
pp. 234-250 ◽  
Author(s):  
Sharon Zivkovic
Keyword(s):  
Food Insecurity ◽  
Design Methodology ◽  
Wicked Problems ◽  
Wicked Problem ◽  
Online Tool ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Systemic Innovation ◽  
Innovation Approach ◽  
First Time ◽  
Practical Implications

Purpose This paper aims to question the utility of addressing food insecurity through food assistance programmes and by separating food security into pillars, and it argues for a systemic innovation and complexity approach. This is achieved by demonstrating that food insecurity is a wicked problem and therefore needs to be addressed holistically. Design/methodology/approach To establish that food insecurity is a wicked problem, characteristics of food insecurity are aligned to characteristics of wicked problems. The need to address wicked problems holistically through a systemic innovation approach and an understanding of complexity theory is discussed by referring to the literature. How to take such an approach for addressing food insecurity is illustrated by describing the use of an online tool that takes a systemic innovation and complexity approach. Findings Given food insecurity is a wicked problem and needs to be addressed holistically, the focus when addressing food insecurity should not be on programmes or pillars. Instead, it needs to be on increasing the coherence and building the adaptive capacity of food insecurity solution ecosystems. Practical implications This paper provides insights into the nature of food insecurity and how to address food insecurity. Originality/value For the first time, this paper aligns characteristics of food insecurity to characteristics of wicked problems and demonstrates how an online tool for systemic innovation can assist food insecurity solution ecosystems to address food insecurity.

Social innovation and temporary innovations systems (TIS): insights from nature-based solutions in Europe

2021 ◽  
Vol ahead-of-print (ahead-of-print) ◽  
Author(s):  
Mary Lee Rhodes ◽  
Siobhan McQuaid ◽  
Gemma Donnelly-Cox
Keyword(s):  
Large Scale ◽  
Social Innovation ◽  
Innovation System ◽  
Wicked Problems ◽  
Wicked Problem ◽  
Case Study Methodology ◽  
Content Type ◽  
City Community ◽  
Social Innovations ◽  
Long Term Impact

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to examine the applicability of the complexity-based temporary innovation system (TIS) framework to social innovation and examine the extent to which “nature-based solution” (NBS) projects may be understood through a TIS lens. It is proposed that TIS provides a framework to facilitate multi-actor engagement in social innovation responses to the complexity of wicked problems? The goal is to explore if TIS provides a useful framework for understanding the evolution of social innovation projects and enabling more consciously designed and facilitated social innovation with the potential for large-scale, long-term impact. Design/methodology/approach The research uses a case study methodology in which 10 NBS projects in 3 European cities are examined and compared to the expected features of a TIS as proposed by anonymised for the review process (2018; 2019) Findings Of the 10 NBS projects, only 3 were “TIS-like”, each of which was targeting wicked problems in the city/community. As only one of the remaining 7 projects was aimed at a wicked problem, the authors concluded that the TIS framework may be best suited to those social innovations that address one or more wicked problems and that NBS projects may not display this feature. Research limitations/implications The authors conclude with a reflection on theoretical insights arising from applying the TIS framework to NBS in particular, and social innovation generally – and proposes the next steps in developing the TIS framework in relation to social innovation. Originality/value This paper applies a new complexity framework to empirical data that have not been examined previously. This analysis contributes to the development of a new framework for designing and analysing complex social innovation initiatives and challenges existing theories presenting NBSs as addressing complex “wicked” problems.

Iceland: how social mechanisms drove the financial collapse and why it’s a wicked problem

2017 ◽  
Vol 7 (3) ◽  
pp. 330-346 ◽  
Author(s):  
Sarah Maree Duffy ◽  
Gavin Northey ◽  
Patrick van Esch
Keyword(s):  
Social Change ◽  
Social Marketing ◽  
Social Transformation ◽  
Driving Forces ◽  
Wicked Problems ◽  
Wicked Problem ◽  
Social Mechanism ◽  
Content Type ◽  
The Social ◽  
Mechanism Theory

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to extend the macro-social marketing approach by detailing a framework to better understand the driving forces of wicked problems. Design/methodology/approachThis is a conceptual paper that uses the financial crisis in Iceland as a demonstrative example to show how social mechanism theory can help social marketers and policy makers overcome complexity and strive for the social transformation they seek. FindingsThis paper suggests the utility of social mechanism theory for understanding wicked problems, how they came to be and how social marketing practices can be applied to resolve market complexities. Research limitations/implicationsSocial marketers need to identify what is driving what, to plan and implement interventions that will lead to the social change desired. This paper presents a framework that guides the analyst through this social change process. Originality/valueThis work provides social marketers with the means to understand the “moving parts” of a wicked problem to identify where an intervention is required to achieve the social change sought.

scholarly journals Exploring the wicked problem of athlete and consumer vulnerability in sport

2017 ◽  
Vol 7 (1) ◽  
pp. 94-112 ◽  
Author(s):  
Kate Westberg ◽  
Constantino Stavros ◽  
Aaron C.T. Smith ◽  
Joshua Newton ◽  
Sophie Lindsay ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Social Marketing ◽  
Consumer Research ◽  
Behavioural Change ◽  
Wicked Problems ◽  
Wicked Problem ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Social Good ◽  
Consumer Vulnerability ◽  
Conflicting Objectives ◽  
Insight Into

Purpose This paper aims to extend the literature on wicked problems in consumer research by exploring athlete and consumer vulnerability in sport and the potential role that social marketing can play in addressing this problem. Design/methodology/approach This paper conceptualises the wicked problem of athlete and consumer vulnerability in sport, proposing a multi-theoretical approach to social marketing, incorporating insights from stakeholder theory, systems theory and cocreation to tackle this complex problem. Findings Sport provides a rich context for exploring a social marketing approach to a wicked problem, as it operates in a complex ecosystem with multiple stakeholders with differing, and sometimes conflicting, objectives. It is proposed that consumers, particularly those that are highly identified fans, are key stakeholders that have both facilitated the problematic nature of the sport system and been rendered vulnerable as a result. Further, a form of consumer vulnerability also extends to athletes as the evolution of the sport system has led them to engage in harmful consumption behaviours. Social marketing, with its strategic and multi-faceted focus on facilitating social good, is an apt approach to tackle behavioural change at multiple levels within the sport system. Practical implications Sport managers, public health practitioners and policymakers are given insight into the key drivers of a growing wicked problem as well as the potential for social marketing to mitigate harm. Originality/value This paper is the first to identify and explicate a wicked problem in sport. More generally it extends insight into wicked problems in consumer research by examining a case whereby the consumer is both complicit in, and made vulnerable by, the creation of a wicked problem. This paper is the first to explore the use of social marketing in managing wicked problems in sport.

scholarly journals The wicked problems of supplier-driven innovation

2017 ◽  
Vol 32 (6) ◽  
pp. 836-847 ◽  
Author(s):  
Poul Rind Christensen ◽  
Kristin B. Munksgaard ◽  
Anne Louise Bang
Keyword(s):  
Knowledge Exchange ◽  
Wicked Problems ◽  
Wicked Problem ◽  
Design Management ◽  
Production Network ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Mutual Adaptation ◽  
Adaptation Processes ◽  
Global Production Network

Purpose Suppliers stand in the wake of a new diversified strategic momentum in the global production network, where innovation is growing in importance. The term “supplier-driven innovation” is coined in contrast to the current hype on user-driven innovation; this paper aims to discuss the wicked problems for suppliers to actively engage in customers’ innovations. Design/methodology/approach A qualitative case study of eight Danish suppliers. Findings The wicked problem of supplier-driven innovation is generated by two intertwined constraints: the ability to engage customers in the co-creation of attractive offers and the ability to include technological knowledge and capabilities residing in the upstream network of suppliers. Research limitations/implications This research combines an industrial network approach with perspectives generated through design management literature aiming to develop an innovative space for co-creation across diverse organizational, technological and managerial domains in the global production system. Practical implications To participate in supplier-driven innovation, partners need to co-create an innovative space for joint development. Originality/value Co-creation enriches the understanding of the diversity of forms of interaction, ranging from information and knowledge exchange and mutual adaptation processes to experimentation with processes of co-creation. Through a complementary view on how suppliers co-create innovative spaces of action in the upstream spaces of technical knowledge as well as the downstream spaces of preferential needs, the research contributes insights about the characteristics of the wicked problems that suppliers need to handle in bridging and expanding these spaces for innovative actions.

Champions in the time of COVID-19: tracing paths to recovery in Ibero-America

2020 ◽  
Vol 18 (4) ◽  
pp. 379-399
Author(s):  
M. Fernanda Wagstaff ◽  
Erica Salvaj ◽  
Sarah Villanueva
Keyword(s):  
Gender Equality ◽  
Development Policy ◽  
Organizational Structures ◽  
Wicked Problems ◽  
Wicked Problem ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Multi Level ◽  
Organizational Selection ◽  
Practical Implications ◽  
Prior Analysis

Purpose The purpose of this study is to analyze the case of Ximena Aguilera, a prominent Chilean epidemiologist, as an exemplar of a champion in times of COVID-19 in Ibero-America. We also refine our understanding of the nature of a champion facing wicked problems. Design/methodology/approach The authors use qualitative case analysis to examine Aguilera’s actions in response to COVID-19 and compare her actions with the characteristics of an emerging theory of champions facing wicked problems. Findings This study builds iteratively upon prior analysis of gender equality champions and finds that the depth, scope and leverage of embracement of champions in times of COVID-19 are parallel to those of gender equality champions. The authors also discuss the findings from the perspective of wicked problems. Research limitations/implications Future qualitative and quantitative work is needed to examine the boundaries of the theory of champions facing wicked problems across a wider range of problem domains and in a wider population of champions. Practical implications Wicked problems can occur in multi-level organizational structures, and understanding the characteristics of individuals best-suited to contribute to the definition and solution of these problems is relevant to organizational selection, development, policy and practices. Social implications Many of the society’s greatest challenges are defined as wicked problems, so understanding the champions of wicked problems is critical for public policy and societal advancement efforts. The nature of wicked problems is considered, and the implications of champions of wicked problems for society are discussed. Originality/value This work offers an in-depth examination of a champion facing a wicked problem, here the COVID-19 pandemic, while the crisis is ongoing. By capturing the champion’s observations and experiences in real time, the authors obtain a perspective that is unique and unavailable through other methods.

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