Introduces the reader to some important aspects of systems thinking. Begins by offering a historic context of systems ideas, taking the reader on to concepts peculiar to systems and yet found in many areas of interest. Describes and applies concepts such as the openness of systems, the synergy...

Examines the hypothesis that powerful forces created by the structure of executive education and its participants are driving the industry and participant behaviours. Presents a systemic model to illustrate the forces shaping behaviours and outcomes.

Examines how a systemic model of managing career development was developed to improve a messy problem at Nationwide Building Society. The approach adopted was to apply soft systems methodology. Presents the model and then examines actions to improve the situations.

Value processes are those high‐level processes which are critical to achieving an organization′s objectives. Describes the re‐engineering of a value process which was not working efficiently and causing serious problems to an important new business operation. Conventional process...

Presents a case study in systems modelling for product improvement in a large manufacturing company. Summarizes the background to and purpose of systems modelling as a change management tool as a prelude to introducing the case and its use in understanding a particular paradox.

Examines the connection between the softer tools of systems dynamics and personal quality. This is accomplished by portraying the problems and issues managers experienced while engaged in personal quality improvement programmes.

Summarizes the findings of a research project into ethical awareness and the relationship between individuals′ own ethics and those within their own organization. Concludes that a majority see their work in a professional ethical light and believe their organizations are ethical too. However,...

Post‐socialist countries have more challenges in the change process than merely creating a market economy. Communism eroded the work ethic, created organizations where employees considered it their right to steal from the company, management as a profession was never understood, and party...

Presents findings of research into culture change among middle managers. Middle managers from 46 privatized organizations in the UK formed the survey group, and their attitudes towards the process of privatization and the culture change from public to private sector were recorded and discussed....

Presents a case study of the financial services industry which is entering a period of unparalleled change that will see some very definite winners and losers. The effective management of change in the practical rather than theoretical world will determine who the winners will be. Suggests that...