Complexity and the Case for Incrementalism

By any definition, companies large and small are complex. Whether due to being comprised of multiple departments and units serving different customer segments with many different service offerings OR because of our own myopic doing, we have created very complex organisms indeed.

Now, upon acknowledging this fact, comes at least one question which is how do we manage such complexity; how do we rise above such complexity to continuously move forward; to improve, to innovate, to adapt to an uncertain future? Well, one approach could be that we fight complexity with complexity - which, I should mention, is what most companies do - or we can go the other way and practice simplicity.

Now, without formally offering a pros-and-cons analysis of both approaches I suspect that you already know the better option; know the real truth. Therefore, let me say simply say that 'simplicity works'. Indeed, practicing simplicity is really the ONLY effective means of combating complexity and the way we do this is to practice incrementalism.

Incrementalism is as much an attitude as it is a method for managing and continuously improving a company. As an attitude, incrementalism speaks of minor movements; small gestures. As a method, incrementalism speaks of rapid learning cycles, experimentation, and a tolerance for failure. Together then, an attitude of small gestures AND a method of conducting rapid learning cycles enables a company to cut through the complexity to achieve breakthrough results.

Leading companies today practice incremental improvement. Long gone are the days of 'big bang' improvements to train and transform the masses. Instead, the winning moves are to start small, organic; to follow the energy.

Then, over time, as experience grows and value emerges to expand further; to ripple out initial efforts to encompass broader and broader segments of the company. Complexity has a way of paralyzing a company. Incrementalism, on the other hand, has a way of liberating a company; to advance, to adapt, to evolve rapidly.

I fear that many companies have not yet earned such wisdom. Perhaps, in some small way, this post will inspire a different line of thinking and doing within your company.

Know this: simplicity works and complexity kills. Therefore, when presented with the complex in your organization, choose to go the other way. Choose incrementalism.

Choose simplicity. You will be glad you did!

Related Reading

• Practice Simplicity

• Experimentation: An Orientation to Transform Your Company

• Strategic Listening: The Secret Sauce of Innovation

See how these ideas come together in practice. Explore the Complexity Leadership Model, our hybrid of diagnostic and dialogic OD.