Complexity requires complexity: creating fits between technology and public decision-making in large projects

The tension between technological development and public decision-making is analysed, in particular regarding large projects. Technological options and decision-making processes tend not to be attuned, which lessens the quality of the decision-making. Explanations for this tension are explored using theories of public decision-making and of technology dynamics. It appears that both technology development and public decision-making are unstructured and unpredictable. It is argued that, in trying to improve the fit between the two, one should not attempt to change these characteristics, but rather start to deal with them in an intelligent way. In order to do this, several management strategies are developed.