When slower is faster

TitleWhen slower is faster
Publication TypeJournal Article
Year of Publication2015
AuthorsGershenson, C, Helbing, D
JournalComplexity
Volume21
Pagination9–15
ISSN1099-0526
Keywordscascading effects, collective motion, Evolution, phase transitions
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. {\copyright} 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Complexity 21: 9–15, 2015

URLhttp://arxiv.org/abs/1506.06796
DOI10.1002/cplx.21736
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