The Power of Integrative Thinking

• They examine problems as a whole, with careful consideration of how different parts of a situation fit together, rather than analyzing different elements in isolation.
• They consider multiple avenues of causation for a problem, as well as possible nonlinear relationships between cause and effect, rather than thinking of terms of simple linear relationships between a single cause and effect.
• They embrace the tension between opposing ideas, and they use that conflict to generate creative new alternatives, rather than making simple either-or decisions.

Integrated thinking is a critical mode of thinking which architects need to learn to master. Integrated thinking is essential if architects are to "address the enterprise as a whole". One of the challenges faced by integrated thinkers and architects in particular is cognitive overload. Michael Roberto makes the following suggestion, on how to move forward when experiencing cognitive overwhelm, based on Karl Weick’s famous 1984 article entitled "Small Wins":

"…large, complex problems can sometimes be cognitively overwhelming. Thus, he argued that decision-makers should break complex problems into parts, and seek a series of ’small wins’ as a means of generating solutions to complicated issues. …seek small wins while working through the organizational decision-making process required to solve the problem."

In my architectural and strategy work, I have often experienced cognitive overwhelm when attempting to solve complex problems. I have found that by just starting, by simply writing down your initial thoughts and ideas generates the small wins required, provides a foundation for discussion and helps to move the whole process forward.

How do you deal with cognitive overwhelm in your architectural work?

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