Systems Perspectiveto Organizations

By: Tara Lane

Comm 303-Web

Topics to Cover:

Definition

Examples

Origin (who and where)

The theory

How applies to Org. Comm

Appeals

Application to NWSF

What is the systems perspective

Emphasizes parts working together to form a functional whole

In a system, the whole is more than the sum of its parts

In Other Words…

In a marriage: If one person is not dedicated, the system falls apart.

In a business: people work together forming a “team”

Machine=sum of parts

Origin of Theory

Issac Newton vs. Einstein

Believed space and time existed separately

Parts work together

Issac Wins!

General Systems Theory

Explains how organisms are related in ecosystems

Biologist Ludwig von Bertalanffy

developed the theory

From Biology to Organizational Communication

Organizations= need constant flow of information to and from their environment

Systems theory provided a new connection between communicating and organizing.

Components of Good systems

Environment- work with it to be successful. Establishing partnerships and teams make for stronger end results

Interdependence- cannot focus on personal needs. One’s actions will effect the whole group. Being conscious of this will lower the risk of the group falling apart.

Goals- activities are directed towards these. Businesses have different levels, and if level A has one goal, and level B has another, they have to work together.

Components of Good Systems Cont. Process and feedback- positive or negative feedback can lead to

progress toward goals. Positive thinking will go far.

Openness, order and Contingency-

-kept order, openess to new things,

and thinking ahead while communicating

in groups can result in positive effects.

Appeal of Systems Theory

Highlights the importance of communication

Peter Senge’s learning organization and Karl Weik’s sense-making model bring system thinking to life

Application to NWSF

A good systems perspective was not used in planning for the NWSF

Lack in communication among members= the downfall

For success, parts of a whole must work together… and the members of the planning committee failed at this

Members would try to move on without agreement among the group, so problems were never solved

Where did the NWSF go wrong? Vital committees pulled out.

As we know, in a system there are parts, and if the parts aren’t there.. The system fails.

Other committees pulled out too and the event was cancelled.

Who wanted to be a part of a system that was so dysfunctional?

Movie Time

For a fun video regarding parts working together Click Here!

Teamwork is needed for success!