Simple solutions to complex issues in the built environment

Purpose – This paper purports that a holistic approach needs to be adopted in order to ensure that effective solutions can be found to enable the environment that we build is fit for purpose. Design/methodology/approach – This paper introduces complexity theory within the context of the built environment, and investigates several existing and assumed problems (e.g. sociotechnicaleconomic) using this approach in order to develop new solutions and garner deeper understanding. Findings – Many of the problems that we readily identify with are simply put down to fragmentation or the “nature of the industry”; complexity theory, however, offers the possibility of “how” to change. Originality/value – The real value of this paper is to provide readers with an alternative approach to conventional problems. This innovative approach aims to quantify why problems exist and how they can be addressed.