Wicked Problems: A Novel Approach Using Artificial Intelligence and Scenarios

‘Wicked’ problems are among today's most complex and pressing issues. Examples of wicked problems are climate change and sustainability, as well as other problems that have critical implications for a wide range of stakeholders, including organizations and their leaders. Despite a growing body of work on wicked problems, solutions remain elusive, underscoring a need for new and innovative approaches. Recent technological advances are creating new opportunities to ‘untangle’ wicked problems by combining the use of artificial intelligence with scenarios. The purpose of this conceptual paper is therefore to present a framework for dealing more effectively with wicked problems by strengthening the utility of our responses to them. The first task is to define and explore the concept of a ‘wicked’ problem in order to identify suitable analytic entry points. This results in a proposed typology of wicked problems. Next, and by drawing from the literature, a set of relevant AI capabilities is synthesized. Their applicability to wicked problems is discussed and then operationalized by using the sequential steps in the risk management process framework. Using climate change as a focal issue, it is demonstrated that the combined use of AI and scenarios is synergistic, leaving us better prepared to tackle the challenges of wicked problems. The paper concludes with cautionary words, including about risks inherent in the use of AI. These have particular significance for leaders and the roles they should play.