As new and different challenges continue to emerge in the workplace, HR departments have a huge task ahead of them in helping employers prepare adequately as upcoming transformations in society, government, culture, technology, and communication continue to affect businesses. The workplace has faced unprecedented challenges in the past and recent future that have brought forth the need to develop a complex mindset to solve problems that may emerge.  

Sure, to solve a complex problem, you must be able to adopt a complexity mindset. And the first step is to recognize that there are no easy answers and that everything is interconnected. You must also be willing to accept change and uncertainty, as these are constants in a complex world.   

You need to develop the skills necessary to deal with complexity. This includes being able to think critically and creatively, and seeing the world from different perspectives. It also involves being able to manage ambiguity and tolerate chaos.   

Here are seven tips to help you Develop a Complex Mindset To Solve Unprecedented Problems:  

Understand What Complexity Is  

To develop a complexity mindset, you need to understand what complexity is and how it affects the world around you. Complexity refers to the number of factors involved in a situation or problem. With an increasing number of factors, the likelihood of a successful outcome decreases.  

This is why it’s so important to be able to embrace complexity and not shy away from it. In a highly globalized era marked by disruptive technologies and business models coupled with environmental turbulences, there will always be increasing complexity in business. The only way to thrive in this environment is to understand it and learn to work with it.   

Understanding complexity involves taking a step back and classifying the problem. This way, you’ll set yourself up for a better course for success as well as help you identify opportunities in a complex environment.  

Recognize That There Is No One Right Answer  

The second step is recognizing that there is no one right answer to a complex problem. This may seem counterintuitive, but it’s important to remember that complexity arises from the interaction of multiple factors. This means that no one right solution will work for every situation.  

When faced with a complex problem, it’s important to explore all of the possible solutions and then select the best one. This can be done through brainstorming or by using different analytical methods. By considering all of the potential solutions, you increase your chances of finding the best one.  

Develop a Complexity Mindset  

The third step is developing a complexity mindset. This means being able to think differently and see the world in terms of relationships and interactions instead of individual objects or events. It means accepting complexity exists. It also means being comfortable with uncertainty and not needing to have all the answers.  

When you develop a complexity mindset, you’re able to see the world differently and identify opportunities that you wouldn’t have otherwise seen. You’re also better equipped to deal with uncertainty and make decisions in an uncertain environment.  

Think “Manage, Not Solve”  

Most managers result to complicated thinking due to the lack of humility that comes with trying to just solve a problem not necessarily managing it. Your job as a manager is not to solve complex problems, but to manage them. This means understanding the different factors involved and then making decisions based on that understanding. It also means being comfortable with uncertainty and not needing to have all the answers.  

Note that “manage, not solve,” doesn’t mean not to plan. In fact, as a manager, you should plan adequately and develop creative scenarios to help you better understand the complex environment and make decisions accordingly.  

Develop a Systematic Approach  

Another tip is developing a systematic approach to handling complex problems. This means having a clear understanding of the problem, breaking it down into smaller pieces, and then systematically working through each piece until the problem is solved.  

It’s important to have a clear plan and be able to adapt as new information arises. You also need to identify possible causes and evaluate possible solutions then move to take actions to correct the problem before verifying if the problem has been solved.  

Be Willing to Take Risks  

You should be willing to take risks. This doesn’t mean taking unnecessary risks but rather understanding that in order to solve complex problems, you sometimes need to try new things.  

If something doesn’t work, be willing to fail and learn from your mistakes. Remember that there is no such thing as a perfect solution, so don’t be afraid to experiment.  

Stay Current with New Methods, Tools, and Techniques  

As complexity increases, so does the need for innovation. This means continually learning new ways to tackle complex problems and being willing to experiment with different approaches. It also means staying up-to-date on the latest technology and trends. The best way to achieve this is by ensuring you and your team are continuously learning new tips and tricks related to your field.   

You cannot solve a complex unprecedented problem with little or limited knowledge. You need to learn, relearn and unlearn things to better set yourself for success. 

Need Help to Solve Complex Problems? We Can Help  

Developing a complexity mindset isn’t easy, but it’s essential for thriving in today’s business world. By understanding complexity, you can start to see the world differently and identify opportunities for change. You’ll also be better equipped to deal with uncertainty and make better decisions in an uncertain environment.  

At Platinum Group, we understand the importance of developing a complexity mindset. And that’s why we have a single-sign-on, cloud-based HR/Payroll system that can create efficiency and the space you need to tackle the complex problems you and your employees face today. We will help you streamline your workflow so that solving any complex problem you may be experiencing may be easy. Visit us today to learn more about our services.