27 April 2016
Download [211 KB PDF]This research note was written as a background paper for our Better Urban Planning inquiry.
The purpose of this note is to generate a discussion about cities as complex, adaptive systems and possible implications for urban planning. The note raises questions about the place of different broad approaches to planning, in dealing with complexity. It also raises questions about how collective choice mechanisms to support a participative, collaborative approach would develop.
Complexity theory is only one frame that the inquiry will use. In any case, complexity theory builds on an eclectic range of other disciplines. Urban economics, the economics of innovation, behavioural economics and comparative institutional analysis are other relevant frames from which to view urban planning. Standard economic equilibrium analysis, suitably contextualised, also has its place (Colander & Kupers, 2014).
We envisage that the ideas set out in this note will inform the inquiry as it proceeds. The advantages of complexity and effective governance within complex systems are integral to well-performing cities.
Our research aims to understand New Zealand's productivity performance and the role of policy in lifting productivity.
Explore our publications below, hear us present at an event or contact us with your productivity questions.
The goal of our research is to facilitate a move from an economy that grows by using more “inputs” (such as labour or natural resources), to one where productivity plays a greater role in driving economic growth – essentially, working smarter, with greater financial and knowledge capital employed per worker.
Our research explores a wide range of productivity issues: employment, firm dynamics, technology diffusion, innovation, regional development, spatial and public-sector productivity.
The commissioning of research and the practice of collaboration with others is important to us. It enables us to access subject/sector specialists and benefit from the cross-promotion of ideas and insights. You will find research from the Commission, as well as research we commissioned, below.
Our Economics & Research team is independently evaluated every two years to understand how to improve and enhance our impact. See the latest evaluation report and 2020 survey results here.
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