The purpose of this paper is to demonstrate how cybernetic theories open new paths towards organizational intelligence. This is illustrated by means of three theoretical models from organizational cybernetics. These models are integrated into a framework for a virtuous design, (self-)control and (self-)transformation of organizations. It is proposed that changes in activities, structure and behaviour-three of the dimensions of this framework-have to be synchronized among one another, and aligned with a fourth dimension: fundamental parameters such as organizational identity, ethos and vision. It is also claimed that a continued and integrative application of the models outlined can trace the path towards excelling organizational intelligence more effectively than merely punctual uses of one or more of them.
The systems approach in which this work is grounded enables the development of the new kind of intelligent organizations so urgently needed. Powerful models, based on organizational cybernetics and system dynamics, are presented in a way that lets the reader immediately apply them in practice. This book will be a rich source of improvement for any kind of organization, whether private or public, non-profit, large or small.
The second edition is updated and even more reader-friendly.
The author introduces a new methodological framework for dealing with complex issues, named Integrative Systems Methodology (ISM). ISM is a general heuristic to help actors in organizations and society achieve requisite variety. For this purpose, numerous "problem solving" approaches have been developed. ISM is aimed at overcoming the drawbacks of many established methodologies. It emphasizes an extended perspective outlining a process which operates on both levels, "content" and "context", synchronically. At the same time, ISM leverages the complemenarities of positivistic/representationist and hermeneutic/interpretive perspectives and allows for combining qualitative and quantitative modelling techniques. The potential of ISM is illustrated by means of an up-to-date case study, in which different methodologies are synthesized to overcome their respective limitations. Several applications developed over the years have led to new insights which enable the handling of complexity more effectively with the help of ISM.
