Orchestrating for a sustainable logistics and transport system
Torunn Degenes
Master’s thesis, Executive Master’s in Systems Oriented Design
Oslo School of Architecture and Design 2024
A fundamental transformation of systems requires changes across many layers, sectors and silos. In this thesis I investigate how Systems Oriented Design (SOD) can enhance the efforts of meta-organisations and being a catalyst when addressing grand challenges in the socio-technical system of transport and logistics. Through broad desktop research, a comprehensive literature review, combined with real-life experience and research through design, I have studies and discussed how – if at all – SOD adds value to processes of collaboration and co-creation in a meta-organisational context. I have concluded in six points describing how SOD offers a new perspective on designing meta-organisations, emphasizing adaptive design processes, alignment towards shared visions, and trust-building through dialogue. It provides versatile methods for fostering emergence, facilitating relationships, power balance and collaboration among diverse actors, serving as a catalyst for meta-organisational leadership. Together with this I have suggested a “Leadership Guide” capturing what I have perceived to be the essence for meta-organisational leadership inspired by SOD.