An integrated social fabric matrix/system dynamics approach to policy analysis

Abstract

All socio-economic systems are characterised by a complexity of interacting influence patterns that would usually incorporate institutional, environmental, technological and behavioural relationships. The challenge for management is to develop a sufficiently detailed understanding of these influences in order to develop effective opportunities and mechanisms for control. This challenge is heightened by the tradition of "partial" or non-holistic thinking that continues as the conventional wisdom in the management field. Though the imperative for holistic thinking is intuitively supported by most managers, the difficulties associated with implementing these ideas into management practice may be perceived as being "too hard" or "open ended" for practical application. System dynamics modelling is an appropriate process for developing an holistic understanding of any socio economic system. A realistic model can be applied to the development of management strategies and decision support. To a novice modeller, however, model construction can be an intimidating process lacking in the kind of systematic procedural support seemingly offered by the more conventional, non-holistic management school. To a large degree the integration of the qualitative social fabric matrix with quantitative system dynamics presents a more systematic modelling process for practical application. The proposed amalgamation also yields some added conceptual insights into the nature of management processes and prospects for control.

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