The study of complex adaptive systems which explains the constant flux of living systems is arousing much interest as a paradigm and model for studying organisational behaviour and associated disciplines. A new order of reality emerges as a result of the constant interaction and coevolution of...

Challenges the notion that leadership is about control by strong personalities. Draws on theories of organizational change to show the part leadership plays and how it needs to change to enable organizations to transform themselves to compete most effectively in the modern economy. In...

Government initiatives and the drive for greater efficiency and best practice mean that much of the NHS is facing change and upheaval. Consequently, many employees feel unsettled, insecure and unsure of the future and how they can continue to develop their career. To try and address some of...

Action learning can be used as a vehicle of change as well as for personal development. This article explores the initial analysis of organisational issues and outcomes desired by the client organisation. The overall requirement was to select and apply a method of change and development which...

The latest Bourton Group survey on trends and opinions in UK industry looks at the likely operational impact of four key areas of change: globalisation; the increasing power of the customer; social and environmental; and e‐business. Companies are gearing up uncertainly to face what are seen as...

All organisations are having to adapt to an apparently increasing level of change. In many cases they have met this challenge with difficulty. This article presents some of the drivers of change that have combined to produce a multivariate set which has led to a number of organisational and...

Globalisation is confronting us with big issues. Most of these have been around for a long time but their effect is more dramatic now. Every day, in the media, some new crisis, mistake or tragedy emerges but, equally, every day there is positive news – we learn more and there is some new step...

The supply chain management way of thinking has an important human dimension due to its emphasis on communication and cooperation across all parties comprising the chain. Examination of the basics of supply chain management in parallel with some major trends occurring throughout the training...

This is the second part of a two‐part article. The first was about the big issues arising largely from globalisation, how they are affecting our thinking and consciousness and how businesses and individuals are responding. This second part is about what individuals can do, ways of getting...

This paper describes a programme of leadership development which has been developed and delivered by an organisation development specialist and a senior line manager. It offers a blend of soft and hard skills, academic and practical approaches, and learning partnerships which use participants’...