Theory of deferred action

Purpose - The purpose of this paper is to address the problem of designing artificial complex adaptive systems, like information systems and organisations, by developing a proof-of-concept conceptual proto-agent model.Design methodology approach - The paper develops an exploratory proto-agent model and evaluates its suitability for implementation as agent-based simulation.Findings - The paper focuses on understanding the effect of emergence when designing artificial complex adaptive systems and produces a proto-agent model that identified agents and their behavioural rules for modelling.Practical implications - In deferred action, agents act in emergent organisation to achieve predetermined goals. Since emergence cannot be predicted, information systems and organisation design approaches that cater for emergent organisation are required.Originality value - The deferred action construct is a synthesis of planned approaches and contingency approaches to design information systems. It recognises the effect of emergence on information systems.