Adaptability in socio-political contexts: Moving beyond ability and intelligence

• Main Author: Singapore Management University
• Format: text
• Language: English
• Published: Institutional Knowledge at Singapore Management University 2012
• Subjects: Models and Methods; Politics and Social Change; Work, Economy and Organizations
• Online Access: https://ink.library.smu.edu.sg/pers/261; https://ink.library.smu.edu.sg/cgi/viewcontent.cgi?article=1290&context=pers

The ability to adapt in an ever-changing environment is critical for success, if not, survival. Most people would acknowledge that change management can sometimes be a discomforting and bumpy process. This applies not just with individuals and organisations, but also with governments. While the former two may adapt privately, governments, represented by politicians and public officers, often have the unenviable task of demonstrating adaptability under the watchful eyes of their public. Slip-ups, trips and falls thus come at greater costs, which go well beyond mere embarrassment.