Complexity science constitutes an emerging post-positivist interdisciplinary field of investigation of dynamical systems in the natural and physical worlds. The central concept of complexity is that interactions between parts of open systems create novel, unpredictable patterns, and that while the history of the system is relevant in understanding its dynamic, the isolation of individual parts of the system (analysis) does not reveal the casual mechanisms in the system. It is suggested that complexity science can inform our methodologies for investigating the social sciences. The paper explores whether complexity science offers ways of theory building that can take account of pluralistic or interdisciplinary research in enterprise dynamics. The authors offer a model of six theorized ontological layers, derived from the canon of research literature within a small enterprise domain, with boundaries at each end. It is suggested that dynamical concepts of agency (adaption, evolution, fitness, interdependence) coupled with the theory of evolutionary autopoietic structures generate a plausible field for the study of enterprise dynamics. A focus on ontological and experimental adequacy is necessary to develop theory within this framework. An appropriate methodology involves iterations between experimental forms of scientific analysis and the grounding of emergent or evolving theories.

TED FULLER IS DIRECTOR OF THE Knowledge Systems Research Centre at Durham University Business School, United Kingdom. This paper addresses the need for a clearer understanding of the problems associated with the adoption of computers by small firms. From the catalogue of empirical research evidence already available, the key issues in the adoption of information technology by SMEs are identified. A model of the overall process of designing, developing, supplying, adopting and absorbing small business information technology is developed to identify inefficiencies in the fulfilment of small business needs. Underlying the dynamics of this model is a theory of software as contributor to enterprise development and learning. Specific abilities required by those involved in the software supply chain, i.e. software developers, IT consultants and vendors, business advisors, owner managers and small business employees are identified from a consideration of the dynamics of the model. It is suggested that enterprise development facilitators, such as trainers, consultants and counsellors, could contribute more more significantly to the design and use of software as a vehicle for enterprise development. It is argued that the effectiveness of the dynamics of this model in practice is a crucial policy issue in respect of the competitive aplication of IT by SMEs.