For many leaders, the word complexity is not new.
Nowadays, everything is complex, to the point it's almost lost its meaning.
Complexity, in this case, refers to the type of dynamics that describe the system, and this offers us clues as to how to lead in a complex environment.
According to David Snowden, author of the Cynefin Framework, there are 4 types of systems - Simple, Complicated, Complex and Chaotic. And it outlines a way to understand and act in each one.
In a complex system:
You need collective intelligence: harnessing the power of groups and taking on many different perspectives to diagnose problems and form solutions
Understand cause and effect rather than jump to solutions
Understanding can only be done retrospectively
Be patient and be comfortable with ambiguity and failures
Take action in the form of 'nudges' towards the goal and observe what happens to validate your actions. There are no silver bullets.
Why is this important?
The type of leadership styles and practices you use will help you to understand and adapt, for example.
Command and Control is one of the most overused styles. This is a good style in chaotic systems, where fast actions without consultation are beneficial.
However, a visionary, democratic and influencing style in a complex system has many more advantages. These styles require vulnerability, trust and time invested in building connection, consensus and a lot more listening than telling.
Situational leadership has been around for decades. However, it is most often discussed when leading people. Over the last three years, it has become clear that it is essential when considering the types of problems to be solved.
In complex systems, there are no silver bullets, no utopian dreams, just a commitment to improving each day.
Image courtesy of Francisco Carcamo