Overcoming the Complex Problem Solving: the role of systems thinking

To seek the solution of a complex problem without systemic thinking becomes incoherent with the nature of the problem. Sustainability problems are multifaceted, ambiguous and complex. Solving these problems will depend on the capacity to find innovative solutions and simultaneously fulfill stakeholder needs. Public managers play an important role in solving sustainability problems, understanding their complex context and planning long-term strategies. Systemic thinking can be stimulated by social experiences, which increase the level of consciousness and empathy of the decision maker. As one of today's greatest challenges, sustainability requires that the systemic thinking can be built as an individual dynamic capability that will enable the effective problem solution. We propose a new form of dealing with sustainability complex problem solutions, by using field experiments based on neural tests and Systemic Assistance Methodology (SAM). We expect to measure the level of systemic thinking of public managers in sustainability problem solving.