Fostering adaptive policymaking through complex systems perspective

Purpose This exploratory study aims to establish a conceptual link between complexity and policy entrepreneurship through the notion of flexible adaptation. To do so, this research aims to explore an explicit connection between adopting the complex adaptive systems approach to the policy problem and displaying some of the key entrepreneurial characteristics in relation to this problem. Design/methodology/approach The methodology builds on the qualitative thematic analysis of 78 in-depth semi-structured interviews with policymakers from 15 central UK Government Departments. An empirical study, including primary interview data collection and analysis, was conducted between May 2022 and July 2023. Findings Four overarching themes were identified across the categories related to the policy entrepreneurship elements and the categories representing the properties of complex adaptive systems. These themes represent the elements of adaptive capacity: adopting new language; gaining confidence; forging connections; shifting perspectives. These adaptive capacity elements are individual capabilities of policymakers to adapt themselves to the complexity of the policy setting as a system, which they are an integral part of. Originality/value The findings from the research presented in this paper provide evidence that understanding complexity of the policy problem through adopting the complex adaptive systems lens enhances adaptive capacity of some policymakers, which in turn results in acting entrepreneurially in relation to this policy problem. Enhancing the individual adaptive capacity is crucial for effectively deploying adaptive governance strategies on the organisational level. It enables organisations to anticipate and respond to change, reduce vulnerability, enhance resilience and promote innovation.