Theories of viability: a comparison

Markus Schwaninger

53 citations0/0 files storedSystems Research and Behavioral Science

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Complex Systems and Decision Making Systems Engineering Methodologies and Applications Complex Systems and Dynamics

Abstract

Abstract Given the growing complexities in the environments of organizations and societies, the concept of viability has become ever more important as an orientator for those in charge. The Systems Approach has bred powerful theories of viability, which can help actors in the socio‐technical domain to cope with complexity. The two main manifestations of the Theory of Viability are Living Systems Theory (LST) by Jim & Jessie Miller on one hand, and the Viable System Model (VSM) by Stafford Beer on the other. In this paper, both are analysed and compared in terms of their relevance and potential with respect to social systems. Also, a brief overview of the state of pertinent applications is given. The paper comes to an unexpected conclusion: LST and VSM are not competitors, but most probably complementary. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

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1998The Link between Individual and Organizational Learning 1984The Viable System Model: Its Provenance, Development, Methodology and Pathology 1990The Viable System Model: Interpretations and Applications of Stafford Beer's VSM 1996Organizational Transformation and Learning: A Cybernetic Approach to Management 1996Designing a viable organization structure 1981General Living Systems Theory and Marketing: A Framework for Analysis

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