What Is In Edgeware?
Edgeware is divided into nine sections. They are: Primer - Before you begin a painting process, it's
a good ides to first lay down a coat of primer. This prepares the surface, so the
paint will go on better. The same is true in learning. This introductory paper
prepares your mind with a context and a base-level understanding of complexity
science. Later, the more challenging concepts are much more likely to
"stick".
This section is a good place to start if you prefer a scholarly and scientific
overview of the field of complexity.
Principles
- "Theory is fine. But what I am supposed to do?" Good
question. That's where the Principles section comes in. Here you will find
quick summaries of nine specific, action-oriented heuristics (of rules of thumb)
for leading in a complex environment. Each principle is accompanied by insights from
some of the leading thinkers in complexity theory.
If you're anxious to see the key lessons underlying complexity, begin with these
principles.
Tales -
Stories are powerful. They explore truth and nuance in a way that makes it real.
For the student of complexity, stories answer the important question "what does this look
like in practice?" These are true tales of organizations facing issues -
most in health care - viewed through a lens of complexity. (You may even find
several that face challenges similar to yours!)
If you are one of the many people whose learning style favors association and
illustrations, you may wish to begin your journey here.
Aides -
Complexity theory is challenging - not just to learn, but to practice. Sometimes
it's nice to have a little help. That's what this section is for. Unlike,
"tools," which conjure an image of a machine that cranks out results,
these are "aides" - relational, flexible resources that can empower you
on your journey through a complex environment. Review them, apply them, adapt
them... and make these aides your own.
Applications
- Get ready to dig a little deeper. This paper, written by Jeff Goldstein, Ph.D., is
an indepth exploration of planning in a complex environment. It is intended to
stimulate fresh thinking by offering a complexity perspective and practical advice.
Contributions from complexity to other important issues like community health
improvement, building health care systems, and quality improvement
will be developed in future additions to the application section.
Diffusion
- Imagine if you sprayed an air freshener, or poured cream into your coffee...and it
remained in a concentrated lump. It would be worthless. Likewise, unless
complexity principles spread and diffuse throughout your organization, their true power
can never be realized. The diffusion tips in this section include learning
strategies, techniques and even "games" for helping to transform your
organization into one that is "complexity aware."
Glossary
- Be prepared to stretch your vocabulary. Complexity theory is loaded with
multi-syllable terms that are probably new to you. (one reason for this is the
cross-disciplinary nature of complexity theory. It draws upon biology, physics and
computer science - just to name a few disciplines.) As you encounter new terms
throughout Edgeware, you can find their clear explanations here. And be sure to drop
some of these terms at your next dinner party - everyone will marvel at how smart you are.
Bibliography
- Is it books you want? Plenty are available. The bibliography is selective,
including only the best. Instead of a dry "list" approach, the
bibliography includes reviews, observations and comments to help you find the right book -
whether you're looking for something scientific and academic, or a simple, user-friendly
approach. Happy reading! (but at some point, make sure you turn off the light
and get some sleep.)
Filing Cabinet
- Edgeware is, itself, a complex, dynamic and growing project. As a result, when
helpful resources, papers and articles become available, they will be included here.
A potpourri of ideas and information, this section includes book summaries, reprinted
magazine articles and other resources. Explore at your leisure.
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