Analytical Capacity

Analysis can be described as the detailed examination of an object, organization or system in order to interpret or explain it8. While cognitive sciences can sometimes
give the impression that analysis focuses solely on breaking the whole down into its constituent parts, for the purpose of this paper we argue that it should also include the process of understanding the whole. In this way the analytical capacity of an organisation relates to its ability to examine and understand its internal and external environment and the interactions within and between them. This can be about establishing cause and effect but also about understanding patterns of behaviour and evolution. Analytical capacity can be defined as:
                Analytical Capacity (Understanding)
The capacity to observe the whole, identify patterns, reflect critically and understand dynamics and interactions, while remaining open to new ideas and perspectives

Analytical capacity includes the ability to:
• Stand back to observe and reflect on the internal and external context
• Understand larger patterns, dynamics and interrelationships
• Look at issues from many angles and viewpoints
• See beyond established ways of thinking
• Attribute meaning to information
• Identify root causes of success and failure
• Construct simple models to conceptualise understanding