When slower is faster. Issue 2 (27th October 2015)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Gershenson, Carlos; Helbing, Dirk
• Is Part Of: Complexity. Volume 21:Issue 2(2015)
• Page Start: 9
• Page End: 15
• Publication Date: 2015-10-27
• Subjects: phase transitions -- collective motion -- evolution -- cascading effects; Chaotic behavior in systems -- Periodicals; Complexity (Philosophy) -- Periodicals; 003
• DOI: 10.1002/cplx.21736
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1076-2787

Abstract

Abstract : The slower is faster (SIF) effect occurs when a system performs worse as its components try to do better. Thus, a moderate individual efficiency actually leads to a better systemic performance. The SIF effect takes place in a variety of phenomena. We review studies and examples of the SIF effect in pedestrian dynamics, vehicle traffic, traffic light control, logistics, public transport, social dynamics, ecological systems, and adaptation. Drawing on these examples, we generalize common features of the SIF effect and suggest possible future lines of research. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Complexity 21: 9–15, 2015