Viable System Model Research Articles

Conceptualizing Sustainability Governance Implementation for Infrastructure Delivery Systems in Developing Countries: Success Factors

Infrastructure delivery processes possess the potential to negatively influence sustainability. To curb the incidence of these processes within infrastructure delivery systems, the enthronement of an effective project management and governance framework becomes imperative. This led to the emergence of literature on sustainable project management practice. However, studies seeking to modify existing project governance structures in like manner remain limited. This study contributes to this emerging discourse on the utility of project governance competencies in facilitating sustainable infrastructure delivery. To achieve this objective, this study identifies critical success factors central to the design of effective sustainability governance structures of a typical infrastructure delivery (ID) system with the assistance of a cybernetic system framework—the viable infrastructure delivery systems model (VIDM). Adopting a qualitative multi-case study research design, this study deploys semi-structured interviews for data elicitation through purposively sampled interviewees within the identified cases and a document review. Qualitative content analysis (QCA) was deployed for data analysis. Findings from this study provide success factors for designing effective sustainability governance structures for ID systems. It is expected that the findings from this study will contribute to the emerging discourse concerning sustainability governance of ID systems.

A structured methodology to peer review disaster risk reduction activities: The Viable System Review

This paper develops a theoretically underpinned peer review approach (called Viable System Review) to assess and strengthen disaster risk reduction (DRR) practices. This topic is timely as countries and cities look to learn lessons from others to respond to global priorities on DRR. Unlike other peer review methodologies which rely on expert intuition to navigate peer review issues, our new methodology structures the peer review process through an organising framework of concepts. That framework is theoretically underpinned by systems thinking and concepts from the Viable System Model which provides a comprehensive, tested approach to assess organisational performance. The paper explores the development and application of our new peer review methodology (which we call Viable System Review) to the policy developed by Concepcion Province (Chile) on involving spontaneous volunteers in disaster situations. The peer review took place over six days, involved seven reviewers, and focused on identifying good practices, opportunities to enhance practice, and lessons they could take back to their home organisations. The paper presents our Viable System Review methodology, reflects on its application, and discusses its practical and theoretical contributions.

Corabastos: a key institution for Colombia in achieving SDGS and rural sustainability

This paper studies a very important and at the same time controversial institution in the country’s food chain: Corabastos. The study is carried out on the organizational structure and its ability to endure over time. The importance of analyzing Corabastos over sustainability and its impact on the SDGs lies in the fact that the main influencer and market with an agricultural vocation. The objective is approached using the Viable System Model (MSV), like a comprehensive approach since different disciplinary fields like research organizational, moving away from hierarchical and reductionist models to traditional management. The application of the MSV was carried out with field information that includes interviews with managers, support staff and interest groups. The main findings determines that the structure has not evolved in 40 years, it does not have a robust intelligence and adaptation mechanism that identifies problems and threats for its future. These results indicate that the main agricultural market does not contribute to goals such as sustainable management and efficient use of natural resources, reducing the generation of waste and litter, increasing the income of food producers, or sustainability. into the food production system.

Design and Simulation of a Capacity Management Model Using a Digital Twin Approach Based on the Viable System Model: Case Study of an Automotive Plant

Matching supply capacity and customer demand is challenging for companies. Practitioners often fail due to a lack of information or delays in the decision-making process. Moreover, researchers fail to holistically consider demand patterns and their dynamics over time. Thus, the aim of this study is to propose a holistic approach for manufacturing organizations to change or manage their capacity. The viable system model was applied in this study. The focus of the research is the clustering of manufacturing and assembly companies. The goal of the developed capacity management model is to be able to react to all potential demand scenarios by making decisions regarding labor and correct investments and in the right moment based on the needed information. To ensure this, demand data series are analyzed enabling autonomous decision-making. In conclusion, the proposed approach enables companies to have internal mechanisms to increase their adaptability and reactivity to customer demands. In order to prove the conceptual model, a simulation of an automotive plant case study was performed, comparing it to classical approaches.

Exploring dynamic capabilities: A systems thinking approach

This research examines the nature of dynamic capabilities and the organizational conditions that enhance the dynamic capabilities of the organization. The analysis is carried out by using cybernetics theory and specifically the viable system model. It highlights the critical role played in the creation and maintenance of dynamic capabilities by three constructs at the organization level—organizational identity, organizational mindfulness, and organizational fragmentation. The research uses the concept of embedded case studies and focuses on three airlines in the Indian civil aviation sector from 2007 to 2017, a period that was highly competitive and turbulent for the domestic aviation sector, with the three airlines showing markedly differing growth trajectories through this period.

A Systems Science Approach to Inter-Organisational Complementarity in Tourism SMEs

This article proposes a model based on the integration of systemic mechanisms such as the soft systems methodology, partial least squares path modelling and the viable system model as an alternative for fostering complementarity (associativity) in Small and Medium Enterprises to improve responsiveness and adaptations in the tourism sector. The systemic method was adopted as a framework for the proposal. In this regard: 1. The soft systems methodology was used to frame the problem and propose a construct for outlining a possible solution; the methodology included a questionnaire applied to 150 actors (including SME owners and managers and government officials). 2. Partial least squares path modelling was used to statistically validate the relationships in the construct. 3. Through the viable system model, the interactions between SMEs were reconsidered to recognise contextual impacts and foster complementarity. The goodness of fit of 70% obtained for the conceptual model suggests that complementarity, as an organisational form, is possible. The soft systems perspective is considered suitable because it deals with the complex nature of the problem (SME associativity). Although the results in this study apply to the Mexican context, we suggest that this potential limitation can be offset by the multi-methodological approach proposed here, allowing the model’s application to all kinds of organisations. Hence, the observations in this paper are constrained to the organisational domain. This study may enable scholars and managers to improve communication channels as well as inter-organisational relationships, emphasising the increase in the responsiveness and adaptation capabilities to facilitate associativity between SMEs in the studied sector.

Systems Thinking Approach to Sustainable Performance in RAMSAR Sites

This article explores and validates the integrated use of the viable system model (VSM) and the partial least squares path modeling (PLS-PM) approach to assess the sustainable management of RAMSAR sites carrying out economic activities. This work adopts a systems-thinking approach integrating systemic methodologies in three phases: (1) the VSM was first used to develop a conceptual model of the organisational problem; (2) PLS-PM was used to propose a construct to outline a solution, as well as to statistically validate the relationships proposed in the conceptual model; finally, (3) through the VSM, the relationships between actors were rethought in order to promote sustainable performance. The results obtained suggest that the joint use of VSM and PLS-PM is an effective approach that aids in the identification of relational and structural pathologies affecting the observed RAMSAR systems. It also proved useful to suggest that relationships can lead to the sustainable performance of the sites under study. It should be noted that the framework of systemic tools is constrained in its application to the organisational domain: assessing two RAMSAR areas in Mexico. Methodologically, this is the first application of the integrated use of VSM and PLS-PM to analyse the management and viability/sustainability of RAMSAR areas from an organisational perspective, opening a new avenue for the analysis and optimisation of management of such areas. This study provides tools to support actors and academics related to RAMSAR sites and opens up a discussion on how to rethink the organisational interactions in order to improve RAMSAR sites’ adaptive capabilities.

Systemic complementarity, an integrative model of cooperation among small and medium-sized tourist enterprises in Mexico

This article explores cooperation among small and medium-sized tourism companies as a way to adapt better to their context because the lack of organisation and control affect their equilibrium and life cycle. The systemic complementarity was explored to maximise responsive and adaptive capabilities considering heterogeneity in these companies. The viable system approach was adopted to treat conflictual relations in these companies; in that sense, the viable system model was applied to develop coherent relationships, foster collaborative interactions and seek equilibrium. The functions and communication processes in the model distribute necessary information to enrich management and operations considering the environment. Also, the culture and interaction among actors foster ownership and engagement to achieve viability. Finally, through organisational cybernetics, it is attempted to contribute to strengthen these organisations and help them to identify their opportunities as a whole.

An Organizational Cybernetics Framework for Designing a Viable Higher Education System

The Viable System Model (VSM) is an Organizational Cybernetics framework mainly used to handle systems complexity. The fundamental role of the VSM is to steer the mechanisms of a complex system to achieve its purposes and maintain its viability. The purpose of this study is to use the VSM to attempt to develop a framework for a viable higher education system. The developed framework is based on the principles of Beer’s Organizational Cybernetics and then augmented with the phases of applying the VSM described by Jose Perez Rios. The proposed framework not only presents a thorough explanation of the principles of a viable higher education system but also gives the basis for a thorough redesign that can be used to help the top universities’ management to diagnose and maintain the viability of their systems.

Viability Theory and PSI Theory Interrelation Inspired by Bunge Systemic Classification: the Viable System Ontology Theory

This paper proposes a new theory called the Viable System Ontology Theory, which is an interrelation among two well-known theories in social science. The former is the Viability theory that is widely recognized through the Viable System Model, and covers the function design of a business. The latter is Performance in Social Interaction (PSI) Theory that provides a deep understanding of business processes and covers the construction design of a business. Both theories have the same referent with different extents. In addition, PSI theory starts when the Viability theory approaches its limits. In order to consider systematically both theories, relationships between their concepts are established. This interrelation is inspired by Bunge Systemic Classification of Concepts. The Viable System Ontology Theory intends to support the ontological design of a viable system, its operation and business processes. Furthermore, it provides a way of interrelating existing theories through the analysis of their concepts.

The Viable Smart Product Model: Designing Products that Undergo Disruptive Transformations

Smart, interconnected products are transforming the industry. Construction is a paradigmatic example of digital transformation incorporating systems to improve safety and productivity. This research uses the lens of the Viable System Model (VSM) to design smart products that adhere to the organization strategy in disruptive transformations. Our design science research involving a construction group defines the necessary and sufficient conditions for the smart system cohesion and endurance in changing environments. For theory, we propose a product-level adoption of VSM. For practice, we assist managers in creating viable smart products for their industry 4.0 strategy.

Human Capital Management in Tourism SMEs from a Cyber-Systemic Approach

This article presents an approach to the problem that small and medium-sized Mexican lodging enterprises face regarding their ability to adapt to changes in their context. Therefore, these organisations depend on their human capital to develop competitive advantages; however, their management is deficient, which makes their operations and their permanence in the market vulnerable. In this context, the management process of people is essential to encourage equilibrium within the organisation. Nevertheless, the literature review did not show any systemic models that are specific to these types of companies. The System of Systems Methodology supports this work; therefore, the Soft Systems Methodology is used to structure the problem and its components to propose a construct and outline a solution. The relevant systems of the construct are operationalised, and an analytical hierarchy process is used to make a comparison. Consistency values greater than 90% were obtained. This means that the model is congruent with the environment in which the mentioned organisations operate. Once the construct is validated, changes in the relationships of the studied companies are proposed based on the viable system model and the incorporation of cyber-systemic tenants that, together, contribute to solving the identified pathologies.

Systems Engineering and Complex Systems Governance – Lessons for Better Integration

AbstractThe relationship between systems engineering and complex systems governance is not clear, especially given the field of ideas and methodologies supporting complex systems governance are in their early years of evolution. This paper looks to practice, drawing lessons from a case example about the role and application of systems engineering in a major reform program, especially in relation to complex systems governance, seeking to inform the evolution of both theory and practice in how these two fields of ideas work better together. The case study comes from the Australian defence maritime community. This community is transforming its approach to regulating and assuring the management of the seaworthiness of its maritime systems across multiple owners and operators and across their capability life cycles. The paper outlines the situation that created the case for change in the regulatory and management approach; and, examines the complication that caused the then Chief of Navy to change the approach half way through the six‐year transformation period. In making this change, ‘traditional’ systems engineering became less visible, and complex systems governance took precedence while still employing systems engineering principles in the design, build and implementation of the transformation program. The paper then considers three questions: what was the nature of the change, why did the change matter and what lessons do we draw for the relationship between complex systems governance and systems engineering? The authors' answers highlight the traps of not connecting the two fields of ideas. They illustrate the value of the viable systems model (VSM) as an architecture for good governance over the design, build, and implementation of change as well as its ongoing operation and evolution. They go so far as to suggest the lessons will add to the discussion of how the International Council of Systems Engineering (INCOSE) can implement the connections it has made between its vision and the United Nations' Sustainability Development Goals (SDG).

Diagnosis of Software Projects Based on the Viable System Model

This work aims to identify the shortcomings that may impair or endanger the viability of software projects, and attemps to reduce their failure rates. A diagnosis based on the Viable System Model of software projects is shown. The data collection processes necessary to make a diagnosis have been carried out through a questionnaire and personal interviews with 38 companies in the Information and Communications Technology (ICT) sector. The subsequent descriptive analysis allows us to detect 8 weak points in the organizational structure of the software projects. We highlight two of the 8 weak points in particular: the nondefinition of the next lower level of recursion and the need to improve the exploration mechanisms used to evaluate future scenarios. Although the sample seems small, a great effort was expended to interview the 38 companies due to an extension of the interview time (approximately 75 min) and the confidentiality and complexity of the topic, which required gathering a high level of detail and in-depth information on each of the projects and companies in the survey. This work offers managers a detailed reference for the diagnosis or design of viable software projects. The novel aspect of the work focuses on the application of the Viable System Model for proposing organizational changes in the development of software projects. This holistic perspective of the organizational structure of software projects will allow an increase in their success rate.

Researches status and trends of management cybernetics and viable system model

PurposeThis paper reviews the underpinning principles and scientific trends of cybernetics and the viable system model (VSM). Therefore, this paper aims to guide authors and managers active in management cybernetics and to inform them about the past, current and future trends in this discipline.Design/methodology/approachThis paper adopts both qualitative and quantitative methods. First, a descriptive and qualitative approach is used to review and analyze management cybernetics historical trends. Then, a frequency analysis (quantitative) is conducted on the 1,000 first publications in the field.FindingsThe cybernetics was emerged in the Josiah Macy conference in 1946. Then, Wiener introduced the field of cybernetics and Ashby, Von Foerster and McCulloch developed this concept as a discipline. The Management cybernetics field that was introduced by Beer is a combination of system, control and management sciences. Beer presented VSM as an operational model in this area. Analyzing the 1,000 top-ranked publications shows that the introduction of this field reached maturity and further development became relatively mature. Moreover, based on the analyzed trends, VSM model application can now be strongly attractive. In this paper, the main journals, authors and research trends are analyzed. The main application area of this model is in the IT field and large-scale organizations.Practical implicationsThe present paper’s implication for practitioners and researchers is guiding authors and managers to most appropriate studies in the field, so that they can produce and use the most efficient studies in this field.Social implicationsThe fields of IT, Policy-Making, Production, Social Issues, Service industry, Software developers, etc., are some of this paper’s implications for industry and society.Originality/valueIn this paper, the steps of VSM development are investigated. Then, recent trends (classifications, authors, journals and topics analysis) are surveyed by analyzing the top 1,000 publications in this field. This paper would help researchers find more appropriate research fields. In addition, it helps practitioners find the optimum solutions based on management cybernetics for their problems among vast numbers of publications.

Identification of organisational pathologies

PurposeThe purpose of this is to explore the potential of the combined use of the viable system model (VSM) and social network analysis (SNA) to identify organizational pathologies.Design/methodology/approachUsing a well-documented case study based on an academic consultancy intervention and Action Research Project, participative methods for the diagnostic of the VSM and questionnaires for the collection of connectivity data for the SNA were used to develop a heuristic to integrate these two tools and identify organizational pathologies.FindingsThis study provides empirical evidence of the benefits of the combined use of SNA to enhance the identification of organizational pathologies in VSM interventions, by providing an additional qualitative and quantitative framework for the interpretation of findings coming from VSM organizational diagnostics.Research limitations/implicationsThis work explores some analytic routines of SNA frequently used in management. The validation is constrained to the nature of the data set from a case study. The document invites to a discussion of further and more advanced applications on the integration of the VSM and SNA.Practical implicationsThe enhanced identification of organizational pathologies can contribute to the emerging new interest in applications of the VSM in management, providing robustness to the structural analysis of organizations.Originality/valueThis paper proposes a guideline to exploit the potential of the combined use of SNA and VSM. It opens new avenues for the study of organizational pathologies.

Investigating IT Governance through the Viable System Model

ABSTRACTThis paper investigates IT governance through the Viable System Model (VSM). We make a theoretical contribution by discussing why IT governance can continue to achieve its purpose of creating and preserving IT business value. Additionally, we demonstrate how the VSM can be used as a lens to describe and diagnose IT governance from a practical perspective, offering insights in how complexity can be unfolded and how complexity engineering takes place to handle changing complexity.

Long-Term Adaptivity in Distributed Intelligent Systems: Study of ViaBots in a Simulated Environment

This paper proposes a long-term adaptive distributed intelligent systems model which combines an organization theory and multi-agent paradigm—ViaBots. Currently, the need for adaptivity in autonomous intelligent systems becomes crucial due to the increase in the complexity and diversity of the tasks that autonomous robots are employed for. To deal with the design complexity of such systems within the ViaBots model, each part of the modeled system is designed as an autonomous agent and the entire model, as a multi-agent system. Based on the viable system model, which is widely used to ensure viability, (i.e., long-term autonomy of organizations), the ViaBots model defines the necessary roles a system must fulfill to be capable to adapt both to changes in its environment (like changes in the task) and changes within the system itself (like availability of a particular robot). Along with static role assignments, ViaBots propose a mechanism for role transition from one agent to another as one of the key elements of long term adaptivity. The model has been validated in a simulated environment using an example of a conveyor system. The simulated model enabled the multi-robot system to adapt to the quantity and characteristics of the available robots, as well as to the changes in the parts to be processed by the system.

Are You Receiving Me? A Viable System Model (VSM) Analysis of Purchasing Coordination in a Firm Engaged in Offshoring of Manufacturing Activities

This paper presents an account of the coordination of purchasing activities in a firm that offshored their manufacturing operations that later turned problematic. Empirical data is drawn from a single in-depth case study within a large multinational company which was involved in production offshoring in 2009. The paper draws on the viable systems model (VSM) as the main theoretical lens. First, our findings suggest that purchasing coordination is a loose construct; one in which the role and types of information aggregation in the purchasing process is loosely defined compared to the aggregation of volumes and the effectiveness of sourcing teams. This finding partly explains why many cross-functional sourcing problems occur. Second, that organizational and functional contextual differences can no longer be sidelined in discussions of purchasing coordination because they define how the system’s functions interface and therefore are one of the most essential considerations for better purchasing coordination and ultimately organizational viability.

Evolution of Management Cybernetics and Viable System Model

The Viable System Model have pulled in system specialists’ interests lately. This field could help system analyzers and designers to deal with systems unpredictability and help them to handle dynamic evolving situations. This paper investigates Viable System Model recorded and late research patterns. To start with, presenting and creating verifiable pattern of this model has been examined. At that point late distribution patterns have been checked on by reviewing 1000 most essential and cited works Based on Google Scholar rank. Cybernetics developed in the Josiah Macy conferences, beginning in 1946. At that point, Wiener presented the field of Cybernetics and Ashby, Von Forester, and McCulloch built up this field as a train. This Management Cybernetics was presented in 1959 by Beer is a blend of frameworks of control, and management sciences. Beer introduced VSM as an operational model here. Reviewing 1000 most cited publications demonstrates the presentation of this field achieved maturity and further advancement turned out to be generally under development. In addition, in view of investigated patterns, application of VSM model would now be able to be firmly alluring.