Theory of Complex Activity as a Tool to Analyze and Govern an Enterprise

Abstract

Complex activity (CA) is considered to be a key feature of an enterprise, by which it realizes its mission, goals, and capabilities. Structure, uncertainty, and lifecycle are identified as the key aspects of CA. Within the theory of CA, a unified means (integrated set of models) is proposed to formally describe and analyze any complex activity, along with the actors and enterprise. CAs such as management and organization (as processes) are formalized and investigated. It is shown that the focus of organization and management in relation to CA is the tightly coupled pair (system of systems) of complex activity and the entity that implements it – the enterprise. The role of technology in CA is identified: CA dealing with the development of technology is indeed “complex,” while all other CAs, including organization and management, are routine! Management and organization become “complex” when, due to uncertainty, in the course of their implementation it is necessary to develop methods and tools (technology) for a new CA.