ORGANIZATIONAL PROBLEM SOLVING AS A CONSCIOUS PROCESS: INTEGRATING SOFT SYSTEMS METHODOLOGY AND ORGANIZATIONAL CONSCIOUSNESS

Organizational problem solving is increasingly challenged by complexity, ambiguity, and the presence of multiple, often conflicting, stakeholder perspectives. Traditional rational and linear problem-solving approaches are frequently inadequate in such contexts, as they overlook the subjective, interpretive, and awareness-based dimensions of organizational action. This article advances a conceptual perspective on organizational problem solving as a conscious process by integrating Soft Systems Methodology (SSM) with the notion of organizational consciousness. Soft Systems Methodology provides a structured yet flexible framework for exploring ill-defined problem situations through dialogue, reflection, and systemic inquiry, while organizational consciousness emphasizes collective awareness, shared meaning, intentionality, and ethical sensitivity within organizations. By synthesizing these two perspectives, the article conceptualizes problem solving not as a purely technical or analytical activity, but as an emergent process rooted in collective sense-making and conscious engagement. The proposed integration positions organizations as conscious systems capable of reflecting on their assumptions, values, and patterns of action while addressing complex problems. This conceptual framework contributes a novel lens for understanding organizational problem solving, highlighting the role of awareness, learning, and purposeful reflection in enabling adaptive and sustainable organizational responses in dynamic environments. Keywords: Soft Systems Methodology, Organizational Consciousness, learning organization, ill-structure problems