Tim Posselt, Manuel Riemer, Randy Sa’d, and Brenna Walsh
Applied Research / MARC Partnership / SMI Development and Mobilization / FEI Network Development
RESEARCH FOCUS
Provides a theoretical argument for systemic management practices by outlining what it means to view the city as a complex system.
Highlights the management challenges SMIs need to address by outlining what kind of transformative action is needed on the organizational and individual levels.
Publication date: Oct. 17, 2022
https://doi.org/10.3138/jccpe-2022.1.1.0009
DESCRIPTION
To meet the targets of the Paris Climate Agreement, municipalities must facilitate transformational change at a local level. This requires a shift in the mindsets of city leaders and other stakeholders, as well as the transformation of strategic management practices. This article derives recommendations for policymakers and research recommendations based on the view of the city as a complex system.
At an organizational level, cities need to develop strategies that represent the diversity of their citizens and integrate localized social, environmental, and economic goals. The following changes are needed to achieve such strategies:
Mindsets: Systems-oriented mindset
Relationships: Distributed power, equitable relationships and genuine collaboration
MANAGEMENT PRACTICES
- Purposeful vision, iterative strategic planning
- Sustainability-centric performance management
- Equitable and collaborative stakeholder engagement
At an individual level, city leaders and staff need to develop three kinds of knowledge:
- System knowledge
- Transformation knowledge
- Action-guiding visions
CONTACT
Dr. Tim Posselt | tim@flourishingenterpriseinstitute.org