Interdependence

The condition where elements of a system mutually depend on each other—changes in one produce changes in others. Interdependence is the norm in complex systems: economies, ecosystems, organizations, and relationships are all webs of mutual dependence. The more interdependent a system, the more difficult it is to change one part without affecting others, and the more vulnerable it is to cascading failures.

When to use it

Before making changes to any complex system. When a change in one area produces unexpected effects elsewhere. When evaluating supply chain or organizational resilience.

How it can help

Reveals hidden connections that make seemingly simple changes complicated. Helps leaders anticipate second-order effects of organizational changes, understand supply chain vulnerabilities, and design systems with appropriate coupling and decoupling.