Multi-level project organizing: a complex adaptive systems perspective

Abstract

Complex Adaptive Systems (CAS) theory is an agent-based theory focused on the interaction between multiple independently operating agents pursuing a joint goal in a complex environment. It promotes a theoretical approach focused on non-deterministic complexity and emergence. CAS theory applied to organization science emphasizes dynamic patterns like self organization, coevolution and recombinations at multiple levels of the organization. In project organizing research, CAS theory is still in its infancy, but promising research works in portfolio of agile projects and megaprojects reveal emergent properties, agent-based behaviors, self-organizing patterns and constant evolution during project phases. CAS theory applied to project organizing research suggest to revise the theory of project focusing on three aspects: (1) a multi-level project structure, (2) an outcome-oriented scope and (3) a theory of management based on adaptation. Such a 'multi-level project organizing' framework of research would have implications on project governance theory and project frameworks of performance.