Paper Dialogue: A qualitative research tools for complexity management and leadership

Publication Type

Journal Article

Publication Date

2012

Abstract

Given that many modern problems are complex and even wicked, and that actual variables are hidden underneath dynamics that are socially moderated and ever changing, it is difficult for any research tool to take into account all these factors. However, existing tools can be improved or augmented with a view to encourage open discussions to elicit subtle points, but must be simple and resource efficient enough to be conducted at various stages to take into account emerging dynamics. Due to the culture of the organisation, when sensitive issues need to be researched, most people display an unwillingness to speak their mind – thus, affecting management and leadership. Many elect to keep mum about their true feelings and prefer to say only the politically correct things. This paper presents the Paper Dialogue as a qualitative research tool that can help to address these issues, thus improving the quality of data collected.

Keywords

research methodology, qualitative data, paper dialogue, focus group discussions, FGDs, interviews, communication, complexity management, leadership, emergence, complex problems, culture, non-communication

Discipline

Business Administration, Management, and Operations

Research Areas

Organisational Behaviour and Human Resources

Publication

International Journal of Complexity in Leadership and Management

Volume

1

Issue

4

First Page

411

Last Page

418

ISSN

1759-0256

Identifier

10.1504/IJCLM.2011.046437

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