Desire for solutions undervalues real improvements

When dealing with complex human systems it is necessary to focus on improvements, not solutions. Sustainable change takes place slowly and as the result of co-operative action by large numbers of agents and agencies within the system. [1]

"The shift away from "solutions‟ toward "improvements‟ is also consistent with a recognition that it is impossible to have sufficient understanding or control of the context to predict the outcome of interventions in complex systems. It is therefore more realistic to aim for small improvements and to support this with a learning approach involving as many of the key agents and agencies in the system as possible. This approach also recognises that sustainable change in complex systems occurs slowly and requires continued attention to improving rather than a strategy or policy designed to „solve‟ the problem once and for all.

Another aspect of adopting a systems approach to issues is that it requires those involved to reflect on their own perspective and the implicit assumptions involved The challenge of exploring different framing of the issue is similar to, but not identical to, that of appreciating the perspectives of other agents or agencies within the system." [1]

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