Applying Systems Theory to Organizations and Families CSD 5970 Bruce Barnard

The Question What do electronic circuits, governmental operations, heating equipment, communication networks, social institutions, families, and the natural environment all have in common?

The Question General systems theory is about answering that question!

Definition A System is a collection of parts which interact with each other to form a whole.

Principles All systems are open systems. They must import energy to survive. All systems process information. Many open systems are also guided systems – energies and resources can be directed toward achievement of specific goals

Principles Many open systems are also adaptive systems – they can change their goals and redirect resources and energy to new goals. All open systems have mechanisms for channeling energy.

Principles An open systems functions best when it can process good information about its environment. Open systems function within the limits of their environment. It is impossible to maximize the functioning of both a subsystem and the total systems at the same time.

A simple system

Loops + Deer Births+ Wolf Births Neg. loop

Levels of Complexity Level 1 (Structural Framework) Organizational Chart Level 2 (Clockwork) Dynamic, moving, predictable, external control

Levels of Complexity Level 3 (cybernetic device, thermostat) Dynamic, predictable, capable of self- regulation within limits Level 4 (the cell) Open, dynamic. Programmed for self maintenance under changing external circumstances

Levels of Complexity Level 5 (the plant system) Open, dynamic, capable of self-regulation Level 6 (the animal system) Open, dynamic, capable of self-regulation, forms social groups

Levels of Complexity Level 7 (Humans) Open, dynamic, capable of self-regulating through wide range of circumstances, abstract thinking, and symbolic communcication

Levels of Complexity Level 8 (The Social System) More complex than individual, more open to environmental influence, more adaptive because of collective experience & wider reservoir of skills.

Levels of Complexity Level 9 (transcendental) Most freely adaptable because it rises above & beyond the boundaries of both individuals and social groups.

Functions Positive feedback loops amplify change. Negative feedback loops negate change. All stable systems contain growth loops surrounded by negative feedback loops (prey/predator, supply/demand)

Functions Change that does not effect both loops will only be temporary. Any change, no matter how small, that which affects the relationship between the positive and negative feedback loops will alter the long- term behavior of the system.