basic concepts Compram methodology (DeTombe, 1994)
The methodology is based on three major components for handling complex problems: knowledge, power, and emotion. The term knowledge refers to the domain knowledge that is needed to build a project, and with regard to large technological engineering projects this is high quality technological knowledge. Knowledge also refers to having knowledge of the actors involved. The term power [3] focuses on the way actors can stimulate, delay or prevent a project (Simonis & Van Houten, 1987; Marx, 1890). The term emotion refers to the psychological aspects of human problem handling i.e. hidden agenda’s, intuition, like and dislike, trust and fear (Freud, 1901/1982; Kets de Vries, 1995b, 1995c; Frijda & Elshout, 1974, 1976; Frijda & DeGroot, 1982).
Handling complex problems involves many aspects that cannot be anticipated beforehand. Therefore a methodology for guiding complex problems can only function as a frame-work methodology. This means that only major guidelines for structuring the problem can be given.
The methodology Compram is a methodology for handling complex societal problems and issues. See for a more detailed description of the Compram approach DeTombe, 1994; DeTombe, 2003).
Dorien DeTombe MSc. Ph.D.
Chair International Research Society on Methodology of Societal Complexity
P.O. Box. 3286, 1001 AB Amsterdam, The Netherlands, Europe
Tel: +31 20 6927526
E-Mail: DeTombe@nosmo.nl
http://www.complexitycourse.org
©Dorien J. DeTombe, All rights reserved, first created 2004, update January 2007