Applying the viable system model to ICT project management

Abstract

This paper discusses the application of Stafford Beer’s viable system model (VSM) to managing information and communication technology (ICT) projects in Wellington, New Zealand. Many ICT projects fail due to limitations of current project management techniques and tools. A modified VSM framework was tested by applying it to five different practical case studies of ICT projects, based on interviews with project or team managers. One case is outlined in detail, demonstrating the power of the framework in identifying project management weaknesses, and suggesting strategies for avoiding them. The study demonstrates that the framework is useful in understanding the challenges faced by the project environment and helpful in raising questions on the adaptability to match variations between the different stakeholders in the project. The framework can be applied as a planning or analysis tool. The study recommends that project managers would benefit from a better understanding of the VSM methodology.