Management of Uncertainty: Leadership, Decisions and Action

This microcredential will support you in developing the skills, capabilities and perspectives needed in a world of radical uncertainties.

You’ll develop new ways of engaging with radical uncertainties, think critically about how uncertainties are distributed in societies and organisations, develop greater resilience in the face of radical uncertainty and unexpected events, and grow your own capacity for leadership and action.

Enhance your problem-solving skills and find opportunity in business uncertainty

Brexit, climate change, COVID-19, social and political change, terrorism, disruptive technologies and shifts in geopolitical power are just a few of the sources of radical uncertainty organisations around the world are facing. There is increasing awareness that agility and innovation in the face of uncertainty and the unexpected are vital capabilities.

For many in leadership and management positions, the COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the hazards of the unexpected, while others have shown remarkable innovation and agility, seizing the opportunities that uncertainty can create.

Learn how to make effective decisions using real-world examples

This microcredential will provide you with the insights to lead, make timely decisions, and take effective action when faced with issues that arise from radical uncertainty.

You’ll benefit from the expertise and insights of both academic experts and senior leaders from multiple disciplines and sectors, as well as major research network, Challenging Radical Uncertainty in Science, Society and the Environment (CRUISSE).

Learn from real senior leaders’ experience of radical uncertainty

Combining over 30 years of research and expertise in the challenges of decision making and acting in conditions of radical uncertainty, this course draws on management theory, psychology, philosophy, sociology, and economics.

Under guidance from The Open University, you’ll apply ideas in the course directly to uncertainties you face in your work and reflect on these in collaboration with other learners. You’ll apply what you learn to your own challenges in a final project that reflects on your learning and future development.

Throughout the course you’ll take part in weekly activities to support and consolidate your learning. At the end of the course, you’ll submit an assessment which is marked and graded by subject matter experts.

Is this microcredential suitable for those in senior leadership and managerial roles in business, the public sector or third sector?

Yes. This course will support those in, or aspiring to, more senior roles to develop how they engage with uncertainty and build a foundation to continue developing leadership skills and capabilities.

Courses under this program:
Course 1: Management of Uncertainty: Leadership, Decisions and Action
-Build the skills and capabilities required to manage and lead in the face of radical uncertainty