Abstract
The Oxford English Dictionary (OED), the established definition of words in the English language, is at odds with other definitions of complexity proffered by Complexity Theory. This variance is likely to cause confusion in the delivery community. The incorrect classification of a project between ‘complicated’ and ‘complex’ is considered by some to be a major source of project failure; resolving this issue is therefore critical. This paper explores the definition of complexity by
assessing definitions from various sources and by conducting a survey of over 100 delivery professionals. The results demonstrate the extent of the confusion and have informed considerations on how to resolve this. This paper recommends that it is essential that the definition is either defined at the start, or that the term is avoided by using its components. This paper identifies a simple modification to the OED definition that would resolve many of the issues, if implemented.
assessing definitions from various sources and by conducting a survey of over 100 delivery professionals. The results demonstrate the extent of the confusion and have informed considerations on how to resolve this. This paper recommends that it is essential that the definition is either defined at the start, or that the term is avoided by using its components. This paper identifies a simple modification to the OED definition that would resolve many of the issues, if implemented.
Original language | English |
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Publication status | Unpublished - 12 Jul 2018 |
Event | 28th Annual INCOSE International Symposium - Grand Hyatt Washington, Washington DC, United States Duration: 7 Jul 2018 → 12 Jul 2018 |
Conference
Conference | 28th Annual INCOSE International Symposium |
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Country/Territory | United States |
City | Washington DC |
Period | 7/07/18 → 12/07/18 |