Techniques for dealing with complexity
Complex systems poorly understood
Currently the topic of complexity is poorly defined in the context of systems. A useful direction for research in this area will be to increase the overall understanding of complexity specifically in the area of complex systems.
Defining a better understanding
A more complete view of this issue will enable engineers designing systems a means of defining to what degree a system is complex. A reasonable measure of this may enable designers the future option of minimising complexity where appropriate.
Our approach
Our work in this area will use available literature and current views on, for example: chaos theory to develop a standard of complexity that can be used to define how systems can be described as complex.
See also ...
There is more information about understanding complexity and complex systems in the November 2006 research highlight .
Contact the EDC
For further details of the EDC's activities please get in touch with us through our contact page.
Commercial Research at Newcastle University
A full list of commercially available research facilities for Newcastle University can be found on the Services for Business web pages.
Highlight for April 2008
Integrated Modelling for Strategic Planning
Strategic planning for sustainability requires complex systems to be modelled.
Because of this complexity, it is unrealistic to develop new and comprehensive models for each of the numerous possible situations likely to be encountered. Many models already exist ...
Previous highlights
About the Events Diary
Upcoming seminars
The EDC often hosts, arranges or is associated with a wide variety of seminars related to its activities.
These seminars (often in association with an engineering institute) are always open to students and staff at the university and often to the public.
Upcoming events will be listed on this website in the future. Please check back from time to time for updates.