ABSTRACT
Systems and complexity-related theories take into account manifestations of chaos, complexity, ‘the unexpected’ and ‘chance’. Systems and complexity-related theories focus on local situations and on the subjective realities of multiple stakeholders. Systems innovation begins with a systems analysis to determine which systems features, both inside and outside, contribute to the growth of wicked problems. Systems innovation entails the deployment of smart interventions , the creation of shared awareness and perspective, and the mobilization of allies. Without openness and mutual trust, it is difficult to find common ground and develop a shared vision of what is going on and needed. Collective sensemaking is a heightened process of understanding what is taking place. Smart interventions are ‘smart’ not because they are the most obvious solutions but because they are creative and a result of co-creation and co-design.
