OVERVIEW
Organizational Analysis: Defining the Organization Utilizing the Systems Theories Lens
This portion of the case study assignment will require you to apply the Systems Theories lens to
your organization. This enables you to make sense of the organization in a general way before
turning to the specific problem within the organization which you identified in the Problem
Proposal Assignment.
INSTRUCTIONS
Lens Two: Reviewing the Systems Theories [ORGANISM]
Use the following questions to describe, in a summative-narrative fashion, what the systems of
your organization look like. Your summary is to be 35 pages, include 35 references (this can
include your textbook), have a title and reference page, and be formatted according to current
APA style (first person should not be used). Headings should be used for each section of the
paper.
- What is the cycle of production for this organization? i.e., what are we about as an
organization?
a. What do we bring in (input), how do we use it and form our product (throughput)?
b. What do we send out into the larger world (output)?
- Are we open to negative feedback from the sub and super systems?
a. What are we doing to reverse the entropy of the system?
b. Are we exploring other paths to the ends (equifinality)?
- What is our proper place in the broader society and economy?
Issue: genotypic function. (Productive, Maintenance, Adaptive, Managerial/Political)
- Are we balancing our need for profit with a long-term view of survival?
The issue is the Maximization Principle.
- How are we scanning the environment?
What do we know about the environmental sectors (Economic, political, social, etc.)?
Organizational Analysis Using Systems Theories Lens
Introduction
In the realm of organizational analysis, applying Systems Theories provides a holistic perspective on the functioning of an organization. This approach allows for a comprehensive understanding of how various components within an organization interact and influence each other. Through the Systems Theories lens, we can delve into the core operations, feedback mechanisms, environmental interactions, and strategic positioning of the organization. This essay will explore the application of Systems Theories to an organization, addressing key questions and aspects as outlined in the instructions.
Cycle of Production and Organizational Functioning
1. Cycle of Production:- Input: The organization acquires resources, including raw materials, human capital, and financial investments.
- Throughput: These resources are utilized efficiently to create products or deliver services, involving processes, technologies, and human expertise.
- Output: The organization releases its final products or services into the market or community, contributing value and fulfilling needs.
Feedback Mechanisms and Adaptability
2. Feedback Mechanisms:- The organization must be receptive to negative feedback from both internal (subsystems) and external (supersystems) sources to identify areas for improvement.
- Entropy Reversal: Strategies must be implemented to counteract the natural tendency towards disorder or inefficiency within the organization.
- Equifinality: Exploring alternative pathways and approaches to achieve organizational goals ensures flexibility and adaptability.
Societal Integration and Economic Considerations
3. Role in Society and Economy:- Understanding the genotypic function helps clarify the organization's purpose in society: whether it is primarily focused on productivity, maintenance, adaptation, or managerial/political functions.
Balancing Profitability and Sustainability
4. Maximization Principle:- Balancing short-term profitability goals with long-term sustainability is crucial for the organization's survival and growth.
- Strategic decision-making should encompass considerations beyond immediate financial gains to ensure resilience and longevity.
Environmental Scanning and Adaptation
5. Environmental Analysis:- Constant scanning of the economic, political, social, and technological sectors is essential to anticipate changes and trends that may impact the organization.
- Adapting organizational strategies in response to environmental shifts enhances competitiveness and resilience.
Conclusion
In conclusion,
applying Systems Theories to organizational analysis offers a valuable framework for understanding the interconnected dynamics within an organization. By examining the production cycle, feedback mechanisms, societal integration, sustainability considerations, and environmental scanning practices, organizations can improve their strategic decision-making and operational effectiveness. Embracing a systemic view enables organizations to navigate complexity, drive innovation, and achieve long-term success in dynamic environments.