The Next Next Common Sense
Toward a Contextual Synthesis
Rather than positioning complexity-adapted and traditional ap- proaches as mutually exclusive alternatives, the most sophisticated or- ganizations develop what might be called “contextual synthesis”—the capability to deploy different approaches in different domains based on their specific characteristics. Professional services firm Deloitte implements this contextual ap- proach by explicitly categorizing work domains along a complexity spec- trum, from “procedural” (where traditional approaches predominate) to “emergent” (where complexity-adapted approaches are essential). This categorization isn’t static but regularly reassessed as conditions change, enabling what they call “contextual methodology selection”—choos- ing approaches based on domain characteristics rather than organiza- tional habit. Similarly, healthcare organization Cleveland Clinic distinguishes be- tween “protocol-governed” and “judgment-governed” aspects of patient care, applying different management approaches to each domain. This nuanced implementation recognizes what organization theorist Ralph Stacey calls “requisite variety in management approach”—matching man- agement complexity to the complexity of the challenge being addressed. The most effective leaders develop what organizational psychologist Robert Kegan calls “complexity of mind”—the cognitive capability to hold seemingly contradictory approaches simultaneously, deploying them appropriately based on context rather than dogmatic adherence to either traditional or complexity-adapted frameworks alone. By acknowledging these alternative perspectives and legitimate lim- itations, organizations can develop more nuanced implementations that match approaches to contexts rather than seeking universal application of any single framework. This balanced perspective doesn’t diminish the value of complexity-adapted approaches but rather clarifies where and how they create maximum value—enabling organizations to navigate complexity with wisdom rather than ideological zeal.
423
Made with FlippingBook. PDF to flipbook with ease