This book examines the definition of complexity and its meaning, and its components relative to simple and complicated problems - from a project portfolio perspective and in engineering terms. It investigates its origins in terms of complex adaptive systems and compares the influences on the business world to those of systems observed in the natural world. It examines how systems theory can be used to gain a better understanding of the increasingly complex environment within which a modern portfolio exists. The book navigates through complexity by using tested engineering approaches to ensure a portfolio continues to maximize return.

Author Biography

Steve Butler is a dynamic PMO manager and globally recognized expert in the field of portfolio management. He offers deep cross-industry knowledge of PMO design, implementation and management, and significant experience successfully linking broad strategic objectives into specific initiatives that drive tangible change. Selective highlights of Butler's work include the following: Worked with organizations such as the UK Financial Conduct Authority, Allen & Overy, Credit Suisse, Barclays Wealth, HSBC, the FT, the NHS, Vodafone, Orange, Gazprom, Zurich Insurance, and Old Mutual Wealth-and with PMI Current Chair of the UK Portfolio Management Forum Core committee, which wrote PMI's The Standard for Portfolio Management - Fourth Edition Core member of the governance board that created the Portfolio Management Professional certification (PfMP), and sits on the global assessment panel for PfMP applicants Master's Degree in Strategic Management and is in his final year of his doctoral studies, researching for a dissertation entitled "Complexity and its Impact on Portfolio Delivery"