Susu Nousala - Academia.edu (original) (raw)

Papers by Susu Nousala

Social Science Research Network, Jun 29, 2010

Whilst peer review is the common form of scholarly refereeing, there are many differing aspects t... more Whilst peer review is the common form of scholarly refereeing, there are many differing aspects to this process. There is a view that the system is not without its faults and this has given rise to increasing discussion and examination of the process as a whole. Since the importance of peer review is based on the primary way in which quality control is asserted within the academic world, the concern is what impact this is having on an ever increasing diversity of scholarship, in particular, within and between science and engineering disciplines. The peer review process as is commonly understood, and increasingly considered as a conservative approach which is failing to adequately deal with the challenges of assessing interdisciplinary research, publications and outputs.

Journal on Systemics, Cybernetics and Informatics, Dec 1, 2022

This paper discusses and examines the concept of preconditions and their possible impact on any s... more This paper discusses and examines the concept of preconditions and their possible impact on any systemic supporting structures related to human and non-human ecological communities. Preconditions are defined and discussed in this work as phenomena that exist, seen or unseen, as part of the initial stages of a developing community system (for both human and non-human). Recent evaluations of cases and models have highlighted how preconditions may enhance or weaken developing support structures of any ecological community system. These observations and outcomes were based on several previous cases, with targeted literature reviews and field work. The research spans across several different disciplines, with a common emergent thread, based on insights afforded by an interdisciplinary approach. The impact of preconditions within systems of sustainable ecological community structures, are essentially virtual with emergent physical properties and outcomes. The practical and ecological community implications of this work lie in the provision of better insights into the how, why, and what are the existing, dynamic conditions towards sustained, future community development. The impact on dynamic community evolution involves countless dynamic relationships. This work presents reviews, based on evaluations on a range of approaches to capture a sense of what occurs within these complex environments and the abilities we need to visualize and communicate these actions. These virtual, and ultimately physical, transitional states are very relevant when considering the impact of what are essentially, bottom-up relationships. This work highlights the importance and impact of preconditions within an ecological community, and the dynamics involved with achieving a sustained state or “equilibrium”, whilst attempting to absorb new conditions that the community may be encountering.

World Scientific Book Chapters, 2007

AbstractThe following sections are included:IntroductionCompany BackgroundCompany StrategyCurrent... more AbstractThe following sections are included:IntroductionCompany BackgroundCompany StrategyCurrent Level of PerformanceInvincible CustomersProduct InnovationProduct Innovation ProcessConclusion

This paper will examine the development and tracking of tacit (informal) knowledge transfer withi... more This paper will examine the development and tracking of tacit (informal) knowledge transfer within a complex system and through the lens of scalability. The relevance of complex systems to transport is that transportation and mobility are highly complex systems. Understanding the combination of these elements supports effective sustainable systems. Understanding and applying the transfer of knowledge within such systems must also include knowledge transfer within and between groups/organizations/cities/countries. The behavior of the social or socio aspects of a system in relation to the explicit formal/physical structures needs consideration when implementing methodologies into complex systems. This paper reviews several studies that address issues regarding complexity.

De Gruyter eBooks, Aug 23, 2021

She Ji: The Journal of Design, Economics, and Innovation, 2016

Ashby and Alexander, who relied heavily on Ashby's Introduction to Cybernetics in his Notes on th... more Ashby and Alexander, who relied heavily on Ashby's Introduction to Cybernetics in his Notes on the Synthesis of Form.

PUBLISHED BY IMPERIAL COLLEGE PRESS AND DISTRIBUTED BY WORLD SCIENTIFIC PUBLISHING CO. eBooks, Oct 1, 2007

AbstractThe following sections are included:IntroductionCompany and Industry BackgroundCompany Ch... more AbstractThe following sections are included:IntroductionCompany and Industry BackgroundCompany CharacteristicsPerception and Definition of InnovationR&D DepartmentCorporate StrategyOrganizational Innovation CapabilityManufacturing and ServicesSustainable Development (SD)e-Commerce (e-Communication)New Product Development (Through Project Management)Self-Assessment and Continuous ImprovementKey Lessons LearntOrganizational PerformanceOpportunities for ImprovementConclusion

The international journal of knowledge, culture and change management, 2006

PhD Submitted 2006; RMIT University School of Aerospace, Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering... more PhD Submitted 2006; RMIT University School of Aerospace, Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering - thesis topic "Tacit knowledge management and its implementation in distributed operations": Research Fellow/Project Manager, The University of Melbourne, Faculty of Economics and Commerce; Complexity Knowledge Architect, Econ-KM; KM Intern, Head Office, Tenix Defence, Williamstown. Susu holds the prestigious and highly competitive National Diploma of Paper Conservation from the London Institute (BS Hons equivalent - 1989), a highly competitive internship with Tylers Museum in Haarlem, Holland, and advanced training from the J Paul Getty Conservation Institute in Los Angeles. She has also completed qualifications as a Master Practitioner of Neuro Linguistic Programming (1999-2002) and has worked as a CoP facilitator with Forum for European Australian Science and Technology Cooperation (FEAST), Intelligent Transport Systems Australia (ITSA), Organization for Economic Development and Cooperation (OECD)/Intelligent Manufacturing Systems (IMS). Susu's research interests focus on understanding factors contributing to the success and sustainability of communities of practice and other methodologies to facilitate tacit knowledge exchanges in extended science and technology oriented enterprises.

Social Science Research Network, 2007

This paper examines the interaction and development of tacit (informal) knowledge networks and ho... more This paper examines the interaction and development of tacit (informal) knowledge networks and how knowledge transfers occur within an intelligent transport organization (ITS Australia). The work is informed on a biological theory of organization combining Maturana and Varela 's concept of autopoiesis and Karl Popper's evolutionary epistemology. This claims many economic organizations are dynamic, evolving, hierarchically complex adaptive (i.e., biological)

Social Science Research Network, 2010

This paper will examine the development of sustainable SME methods for tracking tacit (informal) ... more This paper will examine the development of sustainable SME methods for tracking tacit (informal) knowledge transfer as a series of networks of larger complex system. Understanding sustainable systems begins with valuing tacit knowledge networks and their ability to produce connections on multiple levels. The behaviour of the social or socio aspects of a system in relation to the explicit formal/ physical structures need to be understood and actively considered when utilizing methodologies for interacting within complex systems structures. This paper utilizes theory from several previous studies to underpin the key case study discussed. This approach involved examining the behavioural phenomena of an SME knowledge network. The knowledge network elements were highlighted to identify their value within an SME structure. To understand the value of these emergent elements from between tacit and explicit knowledge networks, is to actively, simultaneously and continuous support sustainable development for SME organizations. The simultaneous links within and between groups of organizations is crucial for understanding sustainable networking structures of complex systems.

DOAJ (DOAJ: Directory of Open Access Journals), Oct 1, 2009

In a highly competitive global economy the development of sustainable, innovative responses from ... more In a highly competitive global economy the development of sustainable, innovative responses from Industry is now vital. Many industries globally need to respond rather than react to current economic climate through sustainable (economically and environmentally) development. The steel industry is a critical player in the urban landscape. Like many industries, small, medium enterprises (SMEs) are vital players within the steel industry supply chain. The Australian SME steel housing sector (based in rural and regional areas) are still developing systemic capabilities with the aim of realizing its full potential. The question of an effective sustainable industry is much larger than any one player. This paper aims to present a proposed methodological approach for sustainable cluster development based on previous industry wide investigations. Through the lens of scalability of a socio complex adaptive system, SME development becomes arguably the most significant player with regards to industry cluster development. By starting with SME development it's possible to build an understanding of a simultaneous two layered approach, "bottom up-top down" whilst including a very diversified group.

It is difficult for organizations to effectively manage personal knowledge so it can be mobilized... more It is difficult for organizations to effectively manage personal knowledge so it can be mobilized, shared, and rewarded to benefit the organization. These difficulties occur particularly in large geographically dispersed, hierarchical organizations. The m

Social Science Research Network, 2010

ABSTRACT This paper will examine specific elements of knowledge transfer methods that SMEs themse... more ABSTRACT This paper will examine specific elements of knowledge transfer methods that SMEs themselves need to become aware of, identify with in their organizations and actively encourage. The understanding, identification and facilitation of knowledge network transfers create the basis for sustainable organizational knowledge structures. SMEs are not a cohesive group and can be particularly economically vulnerable, making it difficult for policy makers and educators to target and actively support this group. Successful SME programs with regards to education and training have been top down approaches, with inconsistent results. The break from the traditional top down approach can enhance an all elements of an industry sector by beginning to empower and train SMEs to build their own sustainable knowledge networks. Enhancement of an entire supply chain begins with the SME as an individual element.

DOAJ (DOAJ: Directory of Open Access Journals), Aug 1, 2011

Whilst peer review is the common form of scholarly refereeing, there are many differing aspects t... more Whilst peer review is the common form of scholarly refereeing, there are many differing aspects to this process. There is a view that the system is not without its faults and this has given rise to increasing discussion and examination of the process as a whole. Since the importance of peer review is based on the primary way in which quality control is asserted within the academic world, the concern is what impact this is having on an ever increasing diversity of scholarship, in particular, within and between science and engineering disciplines. The peer review process as is commonly understood, and increasingly considered as a conservative approach which is failing to adequately deal with the challenges of assessing interdisciplinary research, publications and outputs.

The dynamic interactions of very large living systems in which we find ourselves existing and eng... more The dynamic interactions of very large living systems in which we find ourselves existing and engaging with, can, at the very least be difficult to navigate, or at worst, dictate disastrous directions (Garduno et al. 2013). There have been various descriptions that are based more on perceptions that influence and stress different areas of sustainable development and sustainability. The Brundtland Report discussed the 'inequality is the planet's main "environ-mental" problem' (WCED 1987, p 6), linking poverty and pollution, social justice with unsustainability. It did however; link these issues, even though there was a focus on the symptoms rather than the cause' (Asghar 2001). However, more recently it has been possible to view these issues as living systems, that are in themselves, adaptive complex systems, with many multiple components and properties (Nousala et al 2012: Nousala and Hall 2008: Hall et al 2010). Asghar (2001) discusses a broader perspective, by referring to the Brundtland Report (WCED 1987, p3) and the futility of focusing or dealing with the environmental problems without viewing these issues through a wider lens, to encompass the factors that underpin world poverty and international inequality. These perceptions have also been challenged by increased understanding of richer based contexts, supported by multidisciplinary processes of all kinds, not least of all, the expansion of educational platforms of exchange, that rely on action based research, but also statistical data base analysis. This paper discusses the concepts of sustainability, community engagement, methodological approaches (through a social complex adaptive systems lens) and educational experiences based an educational pilot project, namely Aalto LAB Mexico (ALM). This experimental case study was based on previous research, current literature and fieldwork engagement with specific rural communities in Mexico (Garduno et al. 2013).

Social Science Research Network, 2005

... e-Business Page 5. 5 2. Company background At present, the Invincible Co. Ltd. ... Thailand b... more ... e-Business Page 5. 5 2. Company background At present, the Invincible Co. Ltd. ... Thailand by the Department of Local Administration, distributed throughout regional offices around the country, and the Airport Authority of Thailand, providing the latest high-tech fire-...

Journal on Systemics, Cybernetics and Informatics, 2010

This paper will examine the development of sustainable SME methods for tracking tacit (informal) ... more This paper will examine the development of sustainable SME methods for tracking tacit (informal) knowledge transfer as a series of networks of larger complex system. Understanding sustainable systems begins with valuing tacit knowledge networks and their ability to produce connections on multiple levels. The behaviour of the social or socio aspects of a system in relation to the explicit formal/physical structures need to be understood and actively considered when utilizing methodologies for interacting within complex systems structures. This paper utilizes theory from several previous studies to underpin the key case study discussed. This approach involved examining the behavioural phenomena of an SME knowledge network. The knowledge network elements were highlighted to identify their value within an SME structure. To understand the value of these emergent elements from between tacit and explicit knowledge networks, is to actively, simultaneously and continuous support sustainable development for SME organizations. The simultaneous links within and between groups of organizations is crucial for understanding sustainable networking structures of complex systems.

Social Science Research Network, Jun 29, 2010

Whilst peer review is the common form of scholarly refereeing, there are many differing aspects t... more Whilst peer review is the common form of scholarly refereeing, there are many differing aspects to this process. There is a view that the system is not without its faults and this has given rise to increasing discussion and examination of the process as a whole. Since the importance of peer review is based on the primary way in which quality control is asserted within the academic world, the concern is what impact this is having on an ever increasing diversity of scholarship, in particular, within and between science and engineering disciplines. The peer review process as is commonly understood, and increasingly considered as a conservative approach which is failing to adequately deal with the challenges of assessing interdisciplinary research, publications and outputs.

Journal on Systemics, Cybernetics and Informatics, Dec 1, 2022

This paper discusses and examines the concept of preconditions and their possible impact on any s... more This paper discusses and examines the concept of preconditions and their possible impact on any systemic supporting structures related to human and non-human ecological communities. Preconditions are defined and discussed in this work as phenomena that exist, seen or unseen, as part of the initial stages of a developing community system (for both human and non-human). Recent evaluations of cases and models have highlighted how preconditions may enhance or weaken developing support structures of any ecological community system. These observations and outcomes were based on several previous cases, with targeted literature reviews and field work. The research spans across several different disciplines, with a common emergent thread, based on insights afforded by an interdisciplinary approach. The impact of preconditions within systems of sustainable ecological community structures, are essentially virtual with emergent physical properties and outcomes. The practical and ecological community implications of this work lie in the provision of better insights into the how, why, and what are the existing, dynamic conditions towards sustained, future community development. The impact on dynamic community evolution involves countless dynamic relationships. This work presents reviews, based on evaluations on a range of approaches to capture a sense of what occurs within these complex environments and the abilities we need to visualize and communicate these actions. These virtual, and ultimately physical, transitional states are very relevant when considering the impact of what are essentially, bottom-up relationships. This work highlights the importance and impact of preconditions within an ecological community, and the dynamics involved with achieving a sustained state or “equilibrium”, whilst attempting to absorb new conditions that the community may be encountering.

World Scientific Book Chapters, 2007

AbstractThe following sections are included:IntroductionCompany BackgroundCompany StrategyCurrent... more AbstractThe following sections are included:IntroductionCompany BackgroundCompany StrategyCurrent Level of PerformanceInvincible CustomersProduct InnovationProduct Innovation ProcessConclusion

This paper will examine the development and tracking of tacit (informal) knowledge transfer withi... more This paper will examine the development and tracking of tacit (informal) knowledge transfer within a complex system and through the lens of scalability. The relevance of complex systems to transport is that transportation and mobility are highly complex systems. Understanding the combination of these elements supports effective sustainable systems. Understanding and applying the transfer of knowledge within such systems must also include knowledge transfer within and between groups/organizations/cities/countries. The behavior of the social or socio aspects of a system in relation to the explicit formal/physical structures needs consideration when implementing methodologies into complex systems. This paper reviews several studies that address issues regarding complexity.

De Gruyter eBooks, Aug 23, 2021

She Ji: The Journal of Design, Economics, and Innovation, 2016

Ashby and Alexander, who relied heavily on Ashby's Introduction to Cybernetics in his Notes on th... more Ashby and Alexander, who relied heavily on Ashby's Introduction to Cybernetics in his Notes on the Synthesis of Form.

PUBLISHED BY IMPERIAL COLLEGE PRESS AND DISTRIBUTED BY WORLD SCIENTIFIC PUBLISHING CO. eBooks, Oct 1, 2007

AbstractThe following sections are included:IntroductionCompany and Industry BackgroundCompany Ch... more AbstractThe following sections are included:IntroductionCompany and Industry BackgroundCompany CharacteristicsPerception and Definition of InnovationR&D DepartmentCorporate StrategyOrganizational Innovation CapabilityManufacturing and ServicesSustainable Development (SD)e-Commerce (e-Communication)New Product Development (Through Project Management)Self-Assessment and Continuous ImprovementKey Lessons LearntOrganizational PerformanceOpportunities for ImprovementConclusion

The international journal of knowledge, culture and change management, 2006

PhD Submitted 2006; RMIT University School of Aerospace, Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering... more PhD Submitted 2006; RMIT University School of Aerospace, Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering - thesis topic "Tacit knowledge management and its implementation in distributed operations": Research Fellow/Project Manager, The University of Melbourne, Faculty of Economics and Commerce; Complexity Knowledge Architect, Econ-KM; KM Intern, Head Office, Tenix Defence, Williamstown. Susu holds the prestigious and highly competitive National Diploma of Paper Conservation from the London Institute (BS Hons equivalent - 1989), a highly competitive internship with Tylers Museum in Haarlem, Holland, and advanced training from the J Paul Getty Conservation Institute in Los Angeles. She has also completed qualifications as a Master Practitioner of Neuro Linguistic Programming (1999-2002) and has worked as a CoP facilitator with Forum for European Australian Science and Technology Cooperation (FEAST), Intelligent Transport Systems Australia (ITSA), Organization for Economic Development and Cooperation (OECD)/Intelligent Manufacturing Systems (IMS). Susu's research interests focus on understanding factors contributing to the success and sustainability of communities of practice and other methodologies to facilitate tacit knowledge exchanges in extended science and technology oriented enterprises.

Social Science Research Network, 2007

This paper examines the interaction and development of tacit (informal) knowledge networks and ho... more This paper examines the interaction and development of tacit (informal) knowledge networks and how knowledge transfers occur within an intelligent transport organization (ITS Australia). The work is informed on a biological theory of organization combining Maturana and Varela 's concept of autopoiesis and Karl Popper's evolutionary epistemology. This claims many economic organizations are dynamic, evolving, hierarchically complex adaptive (i.e., biological)

Social Science Research Network, 2010

This paper will examine the development of sustainable SME methods for tracking tacit (informal) ... more This paper will examine the development of sustainable SME methods for tracking tacit (informal) knowledge transfer as a series of networks of larger complex system. Understanding sustainable systems begins with valuing tacit knowledge networks and their ability to produce connections on multiple levels. The behaviour of the social or socio aspects of a system in relation to the explicit formal/ physical structures need to be understood and actively considered when utilizing methodologies for interacting within complex systems structures. This paper utilizes theory from several previous studies to underpin the key case study discussed. This approach involved examining the behavioural phenomena of an SME knowledge network. The knowledge network elements were highlighted to identify their value within an SME structure. To understand the value of these emergent elements from between tacit and explicit knowledge networks, is to actively, simultaneously and continuous support sustainable development for SME organizations. The simultaneous links within and between groups of organizations is crucial for understanding sustainable networking structures of complex systems.

DOAJ (DOAJ: Directory of Open Access Journals), Oct 1, 2009

In a highly competitive global economy the development of sustainable, innovative responses from ... more In a highly competitive global economy the development of sustainable, innovative responses from Industry is now vital. Many industries globally need to respond rather than react to current economic climate through sustainable (economically and environmentally) development. The steel industry is a critical player in the urban landscape. Like many industries, small, medium enterprises (SMEs) are vital players within the steel industry supply chain. The Australian SME steel housing sector (based in rural and regional areas) are still developing systemic capabilities with the aim of realizing its full potential. The question of an effective sustainable industry is much larger than any one player. This paper aims to present a proposed methodological approach for sustainable cluster development based on previous industry wide investigations. Through the lens of scalability of a socio complex adaptive system, SME development becomes arguably the most significant player with regards to industry cluster development. By starting with SME development it's possible to build an understanding of a simultaneous two layered approach, "bottom up-top down" whilst including a very diversified group.

It is difficult for organizations to effectively manage personal knowledge so it can be mobilized... more It is difficult for organizations to effectively manage personal knowledge so it can be mobilized, shared, and rewarded to benefit the organization. These difficulties occur particularly in large geographically dispersed, hierarchical organizations. The m

Social Science Research Network, 2010

ABSTRACT This paper will examine specific elements of knowledge transfer methods that SMEs themse... more ABSTRACT This paper will examine specific elements of knowledge transfer methods that SMEs themselves need to become aware of, identify with in their organizations and actively encourage. The understanding, identification and facilitation of knowledge network transfers create the basis for sustainable organizational knowledge structures. SMEs are not a cohesive group and can be particularly economically vulnerable, making it difficult for policy makers and educators to target and actively support this group. Successful SME programs with regards to education and training have been top down approaches, with inconsistent results. The break from the traditional top down approach can enhance an all elements of an industry sector by beginning to empower and train SMEs to build their own sustainable knowledge networks. Enhancement of an entire supply chain begins with the SME as an individual element.

DOAJ (DOAJ: Directory of Open Access Journals), Aug 1, 2011

Whilst peer review is the common form of scholarly refereeing, there are many differing aspects t... more Whilst peer review is the common form of scholarly refereeing, there are many differing aspects to this process. There is a view that the system is not without its faults and this has given rise to increasing discussion and examination of the process as a whole. Since the importance of peer review is based on the primary way in which quality control is asserted within the academic world, the concern is what impact this is having on an ever increasing diversity of scholarship, in particular, within and between science and engineering disciplines. The peer review process as is commonly understood, and increasingly considered as a conservative approach which is failing to adequately deal with the challenges of assessing interdisciplinary research, publications and outputs.

The dynamic interactions of very large living systems in which we find ourselves existing and eng... more The dynamic interactions of very large living systems in which we find ourselves existing and engaging with, can, at the very least be difficult to navigate, or at worst, dictate disastrous directions (Garduno et al. 2013). There have been various descriptions that are based more on perceptions that influence and stress different areas of sustainable development and sustainability. The Brundtland Report discussed the 'inequality is the planet's main "environ-mental" problem' (WCED 1987, p 6), linking poverty and pollution, social justice with unsustainability. It did however; link these issues, even though there was a focus on the symptoms rather than the cause' (Asghar 2001). However, more recently it has been possible to view these issues as living systems, that are in themselves, adaptive complex systems, with many multiple components and properties (Nousala et al 2012: Nousala and Hall 2008: Hall et al 2010). Asghar (2001) discusses a broader perspective, by referring to the Brundtland Report (WCED 1987, p3) and the futility of focusing or dealing with the environmental problems without viewing these issues through a wider lens, to encompass the factors that underpin world poverty and international inequality. These perceptions have also been challenged by increased understanding of richer based contexts, supported by multidisciplinary processes of all kinds, not least of all, the expansion of educational platforms of exchange, that rely on action based research, but also statistical data base analysis. This paper discusses the concepts of sustainability, community engagement, methodological approaches (through a social complex adaptive systems lens) and educational experiences based an educational pilot project, namely Aalto LAB Mexico (ALM). This experimental case study was based on previous research, current literature and fieldwork engagement with specific rural communities in Mexico (Garduno et al. 2013).

Social Science Research Network, 2005

... e-Business Page 5. 5 2. Company background At present, the Invincible Co. Ltd. ... Thailand b... more ... e-Business Page 5. 5 2. Company background At present, the Invincible Co. Ltd. ... Thailand by the Department of Local Administration, distributed throughout regional offices around the country, and the Airport Authority of Thailand, providing the latest high-tech fire-...

Journal on Systemics, Cybernetics and Informatics, 2010

This paper will examine the development of sustainable SME methods for tracking tacit (informal) ... more This paper will examine the development of sustainable SME methods for tracking tacit (informal) knowledge transfer as a series of networks of larger complex system. Understanding sustainable systems begins with valuing tacit knowledge networks and their ability to produce connections on multiple levels. The behaviour of the social or socio aspects of a system in relation to the explicit formal/physical structures need to be understood and actively considered when utilizing methodologies for interacting within complex systems structures. This paper utilizes theory from several previous studies to underpin the key case study discussed. This approach involved examining the behavioural phenomena of an SME knowledge network. The knowledge network elements were highlighted to identify their value within an SME structure. To understand the value of these emergent elements from between tacit and explicit knowledge networks, is to actively, simultaneously and continuous support sustainable development for SME organizations. The simultaneous links within and between groups of organizations is crucial for understanding sustainable networking structures of complex systems.

How do communities and group-based efforts create, learn and evolve? This paper argues that commu... more How do communities and group-based efforts create, learn and evolve? This paper argues that communities are dynamic, continuously creating connections through cyclical learning processes, regardless of how tight or loosely formulated group based efforts are (Hall et al. 2012).

This issue of She Ji opens with reflections on the nature and meaning of the modern research univ... more This issue of She Ji opens with reflections on the nature and meaning of the modern research university for the 110th anniversary of Tongji University. The first article considers the work of the late John Heskett on the economic role of design. Cameron Weber applies Heskett’s theory to the 2009 GM bailout in “What Is Good for General Motors Is Bad for America.” Following this nuts-and-bolts examination of design economics, Jordan Beck and Erik Stolterman stake out a theoretical position “Examining the Types of Knowledge Claims Made in Design Research.” University rankings are one of the most prevalent and hotly debated topics in higher education today – this issue of She Ji features two examinations of the theme. Meredith Davis asks “Can College Rankings Be Believed?” and Scott Thompson-Whiteside writes on “Zen and the Art of University Rankings in Art and Design.” Four commentators respond: Peter Murphy on “University Rankings and the Coming of the Auto-Industrial Age,” Pradeep Sharma with “Outstanding in Your Field,” Ninghua Zhong that “University Rankings Need Improvement,” and Carma Gorman with “College Rankings: Can’t Love ’Em, Can’t Leave ’Em.” Finally, Maria Camacho talks with Christian Bason in a conversation on “Design for Public Service.” Design firms, consulting firms, and public agencies use design methods to create more effective services and better systems. Christian Bason was at the cutting edge of this trend as director of Denmark’s MindLab. Now director of the Danish Design Centre, Bason discusses the key issues of design for public service.

by Ken Friedman, Cees de Bont, Derek B Miller, Jordan Beck, Susu Nousala, Danah Henriksen, Jerry Diethelm, Cara Wrigley, Don Norman, Gerda Gemser, Maria Camacho, Justin Cook, Hugh Dubberly, and Kees Dorst

This issue we address is “The Design Continuum from Simplicity to Complex Systems.” Articles incl... more This issue we address is “The Design Continuum from Simplicity to Complex Systems.” Articles include: 1) “From Autonomous Systems to Sociotechnical Systems: Designing Effective Collaborations” by Kyle J. Behymer and John M. Flach with commentary by Derek Miller, Hugh Dubberly, Paul Pangaro, and Susu Nousala. 2) “Examining Practical, Everyday Theory Use in Design Research” by Jordan Beck and Erik Stolterman with commentary by Danah Henriksen, Jeffrey Bardzell, and Deirdre Barron. 3) “Design Innovation Catalysts: Education and Impact” by Cara Wrigley. 4) “De-Colonizing Design Thinking” by Jerry Diethelm. There are also book reviews by Luke Feast and Don Norman, and an exchange of letters between Stuart Walker, Gerda Gemser, and Cees de Bont.