Complexity Theory - Article Example

The chaos approach involves consideration of an overall state of being within the organization, with the state of chaos facilitating the need for change in the business environment or becoming the desired state of an organization to bring about much needed change. Both approaches are considered within the healthcare setting, as well as in the global business expansion realm. Examples of the types of change required for each situation apply the different approaches of chaos and the continuum. Defining Complexity Theory Complexity theory is based on the principle that various processes within a business production unit are comprised of tasks, with varying levels or degrees of difficulty.

Complex systems are fractal in nature, comprised of complex patterns with similarities, though they may possess varying degrees of complexity (Lindberg et al, 1998). Though Lindberg applies the theory to the healthcare industry, it can easily be adapted to nearly industry or organization with outputs or processes of production. A comparison of patient management and organizational management is used to explain the theory’s application to healthcare. The complication of treating interacting health care issues is compared to the challenge of administering healthcare in a cost effective manner.

Views on Complexity Theory Early supporters of complexity theory explain the phenomenon as a mechanical process that follows a specific cause and effect pattern, such as in disease processes. However, opposing perspectives suggest that the processes are made up of a combination of complex activities and the combination of various facets is what makes a system complex. In such a view, healthcare is a complex system in itself, made up of challenges in addressing patient health issues, challenges in the administration of healthcare and challenges in preparing healthcare providers to care for an increasingly diverse population.

It is the degree of challenge or difficulty in addressing each of these areas of the industry that drives innovation, or new ways of delivery within the system. The Continuum Approach Complexity is explained as existing on a continuum between chaos and stability. All complex systems go through change, which, at times, pushes those systems toward the brink of chaos and away from stability. This explanation is applicable to many industries and types of businesses struggling to find their way in a global environment.

To do so often requires change, or adapting new ways of looking at the business environment. Often change disrupts the methods and current strategies used by an organization. However, when an organization faces change or develops a change strategy, a means of greater contribution from each member of the organization is created. In the more stable environment, there is less contribution, as everyone exists in more of a state of complacency. Complexity and Change If complexity theory relates to change, then it makes sense to assume that the more change is needed within the organization, the more complex the system becomes.

Greater contributions from a variety of sources make the change process inherently more complex. In the health care setting, just as in any other business environment, some problems or issues do not require complexity. A patient having a mole removed expects little, in terms of the unknown. The procedure and results