Systems Flashcards
Systems Theory
Views Organizations as complex organisms that must interact with their environment to survive; originated in the fields of biology and engineering
Hierarchical Ordering
A system is not simply an undifferentiated set of parts thrown together; rather, system components are arranged in highly complex ways that involve subsystems and supersystems. Like the cardiovascular and neurological system
Interdependence
the functioning of one component of a system relies on other components of the system. Like how the brain needs blood.
Permeability
organizations have permeable boundaries that allow information and materials to flow in and out
3 Systems Components
Hierarchical Ordering, Interdependence, and Permeability
Systems Processes
Characterized by input/output/throughput processes. Exchange and Feedback
Exchange
Input of materials and information and output of transferred materials and information require exchange with parts outside the system.
Feedback
Information that helps to facilitate the interdependent functioning of system components: deviation reducing feedback and deviation amplifying feedback
Deviation Reducing Feedback
helps to maintain steady system functioning - negative, corrective
Deviation Amplifying Feedback
serves to change system functioning through growth and development - positive, growth
System Properties
Holism, Equifinality, Negative Empathy, Requisite Variety
Holism
A system is more than the sum of its parts
Equifinality
a system can reach the same final state from differing initial conditions and by a variety of paths
Negative Entropy
the opposite of the tendency of closed systems to run down the ability to sustain themselves and grow
Requisite Variety
the internal workings of the system must be as diverse and complicated as the environment in which it is embedded
Properties of Networks
a network consists of a system of links among components.
Network content, network mode, network density, level of analysis
Network Content
the stuff that is flowing through the linkages in the network
Network Mode
the communication medium through which network linkages are maintained
Network Density
a very dense network has many interconnections among family members
Level of Analysis
considering links between networks
Network Roles
define the ways in which individuals are connected with each other - isolate, bridge, and liason
Properties of Network Links
Strength, symmetry, multiplexity
Explanatory Mechanisms
Self Interests, collective action, dependency, exchange
Weick’s Theory of Organizing
“describes organizing as the resolving of equivocality in an enacted environment by means of interlocked behaviors embedded in conditionally related processes.
