Integrative thinking: Theory and practical application

Abstract

Subject. This article deals with the issues related to the category of Integrative Thinking, defining its principles and tools. Objectives. The article aims to substantiate the author-developed interpretation of the content of Integrative Thinking, assess the best practices of applying integrative thinking in the preparation of integrated reports by foreign companies, identify problems that impede this process in Russian realities, and propose ways to solve them. Methods. For the study, we used a systems approach, comparison, systematization, generalization, and a historical analysis. Results. The article offers an author-developed definition of integrative thinking, identifies the practical advantages of its application when preparing non-financial reporting, identifies barriers to the introduction of integrative thinking into the practice of Russian companies, and suggests ways to overcome them. Conclusions. Integrative thinking should not be limited to integrated reporting only, but should be extended to prepare and include sustainability reports in all their forms. The results of the study can be used to disseminate the practice of applying integrative thinking in the preparation of non-financial reporting among Russian companies.