Learning More from Complex Systems

Explore the intricacies of complex systems in this 28-minute conference talk from SREcon21. Delve into the characteristics of complex systems, from slime molds to human brains and modern organizations. Examine the limitations of linear analysis and traditional incident management approaches. Discover alternative methods for learning from incidents in complex environments. Gain insights into the evolution of autonomous teams, systems thinking, and conditions for resiliency. Apply takeaways from history, science, and philosophy to enhance understanding and management of complex systems in technology and beyond.

Intro
LEARNING FROM COMPLEX SYSTEMS
Main takeaways
whoami
Linear Models of Delivery
Evolution to autonomous teams
Mindset shift
Traditional Incident Management
The Post-mortem
Is there a better way?
Management of work
Knowledge and Understanding (Linear Analysis and Systems Thinking)
Where linear analysis breaks down
Characteristics of Complex Systems Philosophy and sciences can agree that
How can we learn better?
Resiliency in nature
Conditions for Resiliency