How We Work
What makes our approach different
Applied Complex Systems is not a consultancy, a think tank, or a traditional research lab.
Our work is distinguished by:
- A systems-first orientation
We begin with how systems behave, across scales, actors, and time, before focusing on interventions. - Translation across worlds
We specialize in helping diverse actors, researchers, policymakers, practitioners, financiers, and communities, develop shared understanding across disciplinary and institutional boundaries. - Attention to institutions and incentives
We focus not only on ideas and policies, but on the governance and financial structures that shape long-term outcomes. - Learning over optimization
Rather than optimizing for short-term performance, we design for adaptability, resilience, and public value over time.
Our role
Across our work, we act as a:
- research partner, grounding action in systems insight
- systems designer, supporting institutional and financial innovation
- convenor, bringing diverse perspectives into productive dialogue
- steward, holding continuity across initiatives, funding cycles, and networks
Our role varies by context, but our intent is consistent:
to help systems act with **greater clarity, coherence, and care** under pressure.
Institutional grounding and collaboration
Across our work, we act as a:
- research partner, grounding action in systems insight
- systems designer, supporting institutional and financial innovation
- convenor, bringing diverse perspectives into productive dialogue
- steward, holding continuity across initiatives, funding cycles, and networks
Our role varies by context, but our intent is consistent:
to help systems act with **greater clarity, coherence, and care** under pressure.
How we think about impact
In complex systems, meaningful impact is rarely linear or immediate.
We focus on:
- improving system-level understanding
- strengthening institutional learning
- supporting durable relationships and shared frameworks
- enabling better decisions over time
Some of this work is visible through initiatives and experiments.
Much of it is relational, infrastructural, and cumulative by design.
Latest Insights
Exploring Systemic Finance: Key Takeaways
Our latest note delves into the intricacies of systemic finance, highlighting the importance of transparency and collaboration in creating resilient financial systems. We explore the role of leverage points in driving change and offer practical insights into co-designing interventions with diverse stakeholders. This note serves as a guide for those looking to understand and engage with the complex dynamics of financial systems, providing a foundation for informed action and systemic improvement.