Title: Sport mega-event complexity and reputation: development of a model

Authors: David J. Shonk; Gonzalo Bravo

Addresses: Hart School of Hospitality, Sport and Recreation Management, James Madison University, 261 Bluestone Drive, Harrisonburg, Virginia 22807, USA ' College of Physical Activity and Sport Sciences, West Virginia University, 375 Birch Street, Morgantown, WV 26506-6116, USA

Abstract: Sport mega-events (SMEs) are highly complex undertakings that have important social, political, and economic ramifications. The purpose of this paper is to propose a three-dimensional model that examines the inherent complexity unique to SMEs. Complexity theory is used as a lens to further explain three important types of complexity (i.e., structural, behavioural, and cognitive) which are embedded within three divisions (algorithmic, deterministic, aggregate) of complexity. Taking into account classifications (e.g., first, second, and third order) of SMEs, the model suggests that higher order (e.g., first-order) SMEs will exhibit greater complexity and higher level of reputation than lower level (e.g., third-order) SMEs based on the types and divisions of complexity.

Keywords: organisational complexity; complexity theory; reputation; sport mega-events; SMEs; structural complexity; behavioural complexity; cognitive complexity; algorithmic complexity; deterministic complexity; aggregate complexity.

DOI: 10.1504/IJHEM.2019.109992

International Journal of Hospitality and Event Management, 2019 Vol.2 No.2, pp.155 - 172

Received: 20 Jan 2020
Accepted: 07 May 2020

Published online: 30 Sep 2020 *

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