Organizational Complexity

Complexity is a new field of knowledge based on how groups of living things - people, animals, organizations, communities, the economy etc. - actually behave in the real world. These behaviors are very complex - thus the name Complexity.

Many people in organisations are frustrated that no matter how hard we try and control our workforce and their actions, that no matter how many rules, procedures and structures we impose, and no matter how many plans we draw up, things still do not happen as we intend. But if we are able to view our organisations as complex evolving systems we can see them for what they really are - vibrant communities and we can set about releasing a powerful force - the imagination and ingenuity of our people which is our true competitive advantage.

Peter Fryer. Trojan Mice 

For two good introductions to "complexity" see:

Introduction to the Basic Concepts of Complexity Science  and Trojan Mice