“In the study of development, we must be concerned with how different timescales interact.”

In the complexity-action post I defined a complex system as a model that includes action. I’ll expand on this idea by using Nina Degele’s description of complex systems;

“The systems I will therefore term complex are those characterized by irreversibility, non-linearity, emergence and interconnectedness under dynamic conditions… A multitude of elements, hierarchies and interdependencies do not yet turn a system complex, but merely complicated. In order for it to be complex, it takes state modifications, at high speed… In this sense, time is the complexity-generating factor, able to transform a complicated system into a complex one.”

 

In the same post I mentioned that there are many different systems in soccer and that they are usually organized as parts or functions, (actions/responsibilities). From Degele’s description we can see how many of these models fail to capture the complex nature of the game. They lack state modifications at high speed. However there are some models that do a better job than others. So what happens when these different complex systems interact? Logically the game takes on even greater complexity.

Let’s consider three complex systems models that can be used to understand the game.

First, OODA loops. This doesn’t need any explanation.

Second, the four main moments. These are; in possession, losing possession; opponents in possession; regaining possession. Each team occupies the moment opposite their opponent. From kick-off to final whistle this relationship doesn’t vary, only the length of time that a team is ‘in one of the moments’ is a variable.

Third, the KNVB’s TIC model. TIC stands for technique, insight and communication, but not as isolated entities, they are an integrated whole. It’s ‘explicit and implicit communication’ that makes the Dutch system complex; from Coaching Soccer, “Communication in this context refers to the interaction between the players and all the elements involved in the game… TIC covers all the attributes needed to play and to influence the game. An additional complicating and influencing factor is the continual flux of these ingredients. Situations change continuously as the game progresses, and the players must repeatedly reorient themselves and make new decisions.” That is pure Boyd.

The game can be understood using any one of these models. Scouts will note what teams do in, and how fast they transition between the moments. A coach will note a player’s technical execution and tactical understanding. A player will get inside an opponents OODA loop for an advantage. Each model catches the game from a different perspective and includes the element of time. All three meet Degele’s description above.

But in each one of these models time means something different. With Barcelona, possession maybe measured in minutes. A tackle may take seconds to frame and execute. Getting an idea may happen in a microsecond. The answer to these irreversible non-linearities of time difference is not to separate out each one as a disconnected process, but to embrace them collectively. Linda B. Smith & Esther Thelen make a great point that is too often ignored when trying to put the pieces together on the field;

“The second key assumption of the dynamics systems approach is that behavioral change occurs over different timescales...  Thus, in the study of development, we must be concerned with how different timescales interact.” The successful interaction between timescales is what makes good theory. It’s the inevitable mismatches in reality that too often spell disaster.