Chapter 4: Systems Theory: Provides A General Analytical Framework (Perspective) For Viewing An Organization
Chapter 4: Systems Theory: Provides A General Analytical Framework (Perspective) For Viewing An Organization
Chapter 4: Systems Theory: Provides A General Analytical Framework (Perspective) For Viewing An Organization
Input-Throughput-Output
– Inputs
Maintenance Inputs (energic imports that sustain system)
Production Inputs (energic imports which are processed to yield a productive outcome)
– Throughput (System parts transform the material or energy)
– Output (System returns product to the environment)
– TRANSFORMATION MODEL (input is transformed by system)
Feedback and Dynamic Homeostasis
– Positive Feedback - move from status quo
– Negative Feedback - return to status quo
– Dynamic Homeostasis - balance of energy exchange
Equivocality and Requisite Variety (Karl Weick)
– Equivocality (uncertainty and ambiguity)
– Requisite Variety (complex inputs must be addressed with complex processes)
Characteristics of Organizations as Systems
Role of Communication
– Communication mechanisms must be in place for the organizational
system to exchange relevant information with its environment
Boundary Spanners perform this function!
Media Outlets are communication link between system & environment
– Communication provides for the flow of information among the subsystems
Systems, Subsystems, and Super systems
– Systems are a set of interrelated parts that turn inputs into outputs through
processing
– Subsystems do the processing
– Supersystems are other systems in environment of which the survival of the focal
system is dependent
Five Main Types of Subsystems
– Production (technical) Subsystems - concerned with throughputs-assembly line
– Supportive Subsystems - ensure production inputs are available-import raw material
– Maintenance Subsystems - social relations in the system-HR, training
– Adaptive Subsystems - monitor the environment and generate responses (PR)
– Managerial Subsystems - coordinate, adjust, control, and direct subsystems
Characteristics of Organizations as Systems
Boundaries
– The part of the system that separates it from its environment
– Four Types of Boundaries (Becker, 1997)
Physical Boundary - prevents access (security system)
Linguistic Boundary - specialized language (jargon)
Systemic Boundary - rules that regulate interaction (titles)
Psychological Boundary - restricts communication (stereotypes, prejudices)
The ‘Closed’ System
– Healthy organization is OPEN
– Do not recognize they are embedded in a relevant environment
– Overly focused on internal functions and behaviors
– Do not recognize or implement equifinality
– Inability to use feedback appropriately
– CO-DEPENDENT
Characteristics of Organizations as Systems