A Test of the Viable System Model: Theoretical Claim vs. Empirical Evidence
Schwaninger, Markus Scheef, Christine
Schwaninger, Markus
Scheef, Christine
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Publication Type
Journal article with impact factor
Editor
Supervisor
Publication Year
2016
Journal
Cybernetics & Systems
Book
Publication Volume
47
Publication Issue
7
Publication Begin page
544
Publication End page
569
Publication Number of pages
Abstract
The Viable System Model by Stafford Beer embodies a theory about the preconditions of organizational viability. This theory has been discussed extensively by the academics and professionals of organizational cybernetics. The theoretical claim of the Viable System Model (VSM) is bold. It asserts to specify the necessary and sufficient preconditions for the viability of any organization. The empirical evidence, to date, amounts to a substantial corpus of case studies from applications that support the claim of the theory. The present contribution leads beyond the status quo. Its purpose is to test the theory empirically, on the grounds of a broad survey and pertinent quantitative analysis. The available data support the hypotheses and therewith corroborate the theory of the VSM. This implies that the VSM is a reliable orientation device for the diagnosis and design of organizations to strengthen their vitality, resilience, and development potential.
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Keywords
46 Information and Computing Sciences