Using our Brains to
Understand Complexity Theory

A key principle of general evolution is that the bottom-up interactions of agents create adaptive systems. The agent we are most concerned about in business systems is the individual. . . This means unpacking corporate behavior into the specific rules that drive individuals’ choices in order to affect the larger structures that emerge.

Christopher Meyer and Stan David
“ It’s Alive: The Coming Convergence of Information, Biology, and Business”

While complexity theory sounds complex, the truth is that scientists have brought us a beautifully simple explanation drawn from nature to illustrate how living systems change over time. Complexity theory describes how individual elements of a complex adaptive system interact to create change from the bottom up. Principles for success are very different from those for traditional top-down approaches, and ordinary workers take center stage as the agents of change.

Unique from other discussions of complexity theory, we use the neural networks of the human brain as our primary example of a complex adaptive system. We will look at the secret processes governing the emergence and co-evolution of new behaviors that occur as our brain interacts and adapts with many other systems. You can use this new paradigm to maximize your efforts in developing people as agents of change in the larger organizational system.

When applied as a scientifically-based management technology, complexity theory can greatly increase an organization’s ability to survive in the current conditions of rapidly accelerating change in the marketplace. The implications for business management and learning programs are profound, and those who understand them will be in a better position to navigate the turbulent waters of our economy.

How Can I Use This Topic In My Work?

During this interactive presentation, you will gain:

An elementary understanding of the neural dynamics of the brain
A useable knowledge of the laws governing complex adaptive systems
One tool and many principles for applying the newest discoveries in your work
Information to share with leaders to assist the organization to evolve to a new level of competency

Who Should Attend?

Internal and External Consultants
Coaches
Executives and Leaders
Anyone who is responsible for supporting and initiating change at either the individual level or the organizational level.

About the Speakers:

Andrea E. Sullivan, M.A. and Deanne G. Bryce are principals in LeaderStrength Systems, Inc., a learning and performance organization that works with leaders to improve business performance and results. They partner with two kinds of clients:

(1) Organizational leaders and managers to create management training and leadership development programs using the latest science to create lasting change and outstanding business results,

(2) Learning and performance professionals by sharing how to incorporate leading edge interdisciplinary science in their organizational interventions.

Ms. Sullivan and Ms. Bryce synthesize scientific research with historical trends, projections and current practices to produce tools and programs that are effective in creating high-performing organizational cultures.

Recent clients include Virtua Health, Just Born, Arthur Hall Insurance Company, Catholic Charities of Camden County, and the West Chester Library.

Participants from our public workshops include both internal and external practitioners who have been able to apply the information to their work with people and organizations.

PRODN Learning Event

Monthly Program: Tuesday, November 25, 2003

Using our Brains to
Understand Complexity Theory

PRODN Learning Event

Monthly Program: Tuesday, November 25, 2003

Using our Brains to Understand Complexity Theory

Using our Brains to
Understand Complexity Theory