Research an organization that you would consider to be a complex system (example: a hospital like Sick Kids in Toronto, a car company, a restaurant chain, a bank, etc.). There are plenty of options available!

Part 1 - 7 marks (1-2 pages)

What is the company and what are the areas of the business that are connected with other parts of the business? Consider what are the various types of businesses within the company. A hospital for example, would have emergency department, surgery, pediatrics, palliative care, x-ray, etc. How are the various departments in the company connected and why? What makes them complex?

Part 2 - 7 marks (1-2 pages)

What are some areas of the business that have the potential to fail if the system is not managed properly? Consider some of the macro-economic factors (PESTEL) we talked about as potential problems. When we look at things like globalization, the increase in technology, speed to market, and resources, if the business has been around for a long time, has this business increased in complexity over the years and if so, why?

Part 3 - 6 marks (1-2 pages)

Leadership in Complex Systems - Who are the key leaders in the organization you have chosen? Are they considered to be strong leaders? Do you think they have a positive impact on the company? Do you think it is necessary for this company to have good leadership at multiple levels inside the organization, and why?