> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://mars-solutions-lab.gitbook.io/living-guide-to-social-innovation-labs/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://mars-solutions-lab.gitbook.io/living-guide-to-social-innovation-labs/seeing/understanding-the-problem-systems-and-complexity.md). # Understanding Complex Problems ![Adapted from Zimmerman, Westley, & Quinn Patton. Getting to Maybe, 2006 as cited in Weinlick & Velji, Social Innovation Field Guide, Think Jar Collective. https://thinkjarcollective.com/tools/social-innovation-lab-field-guide/](/files/-LlDndhKUJAbznE6-N6I) ## What are 'complex problems' anyway? They are: * Difficult to address and change with every attempt to address it * Involve many stakeholders with different values and priorities * Have causes and drivers that are interdependent and filled with uncertainties * Are unique and have no precedent * Do not have definitive criteria or indications for the right solutions *Adapted from Camillus, Harvard Business Review.* [*Strategy as a Wicked Problem*](https://hbr.org/2008/05/strategy-as-a-wicked-problem)*, 2008.* {% hint style="warning" %} We are surrounded by problems that are complex. Think of declining species or the warming of our oceans, rising housing costs, socio-economic inequality and the list goes on. \ \ What complex problems are you working on, and how are you learning about them? {% endhint %} ### **Three Perspectives to Understanding a Problem** There are three perspectives to understanding a problem; individual, institutional, and systemic. ![Source: MaRS Solutions Lab ](/files/-LfuSoiGLhCgz_J-gx3P) A systems perspective helps us see the complexity of a challenge, to identify who is or needs to be involved and to decide where to develop particular actions. {% hint style="info" %} ### Key Resources David Snowden. *Cynefin Framework Introduction.* {% endhint %}