Title: Managing in an age of complexity: quantum skills for the new millennium

Authors: Charlotte Shelton, John Yang, Qian Liu

Addresses: Helzberg School of Management, Rockhurst University, 1100 Rockhurst Road, Kansas City, MO 64110 2561, USA. ' Beijing International MBA, China Center for Economic Research, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China. ' Beijing International MBA, China Center for Economic Research, Peking University, Beijing 100871, China

Abstract: This paper reviews seven quantum skills and discusses their relevance for managing in today|s complex global business environment. These quantum skills are metaphorically grounded in the new science language of quantum mechanics, chaos and complexity theories. However, these skills are also congruent with ancient Eastern philosophies. As members of organisations use these skills, they see, think, feel, know, act and trust in ways that enable them to be proactive agents of change. The quantum skills model provides twenty-first century managers with highly innovative strategies that enable them to transform their organisations from clock-like machines into quantum organisations of continuous learning.

Keywords: complexity; chaos; quantum mechanics; quantum skills; quantum organisations; learning organisations; emergence; self organisation; innovation; globalisation; global business; change agents; organisational change; ancient Eastern philosophies; organisational learning.

DOI: 10.1504/IJHRDM.2005.006321

International Journal of Human Resources Development and Management, 2005 Vol.5 No.2, pp.127 - 141

Published online: 20 Feb 2005 *

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