Addressing wicked problems in a range of project types

Abstract

Wicked problems are recognised and need to be seen as a subset of complex systems or projects. Complex projects are identified within a hierarchy of simple, complicated, and complex and then complex projects are separated into three distinctive types. Wicked problems (type B) are focused on and solution methods addressed. Methodologies to identify stakeholders and project boundaries are identified and it has been found that the use of soft system methodology, especially to create meaning, is valuable. Multiple perspectives are identified through use of Dooyeweerd’s suite of aspects in which to frame the rich picture and consequently the root definition and solution.