Complex system governance reference model

Abstract

Complex system governance (CSG) is an emerging field focused on purposeful development of control, communication, coordination, and integration functions necessary to produce and sustain desirable levels of system performance. In this paper, we develop a CSG reference model. Following an introduction to the CSG field, the paper focuses on three primary objectives to support development of a reference model. First, the conceptual foundations and role of the CSG reference model are established. These conceptual foundations rest in systems theory and management cybernetics and establish the essential philosophical and theoretical underpinnings. Second, we introduce the reference model by first discussing the nature, role, and utility for the model. We then expound each of the nine integrated functions of the model. Third, we conclude the paper by suggesting implications for the model and emerging directions with respect to research and practice. In addition, the position of the reference model in the emerging CSG field as well as related fields (e.g., system of systems engineering) is suggested.