A Systems Theory-Based Framework for Environmental Scanning in Complex System Governance

The purpose of this research was to develop a Systems Theory-based framework for Environmental Scanning (ES) in Complex System Governance (CSG) using an inductive research design. Complexity and uncertainty are normal for external environments in which today’s systems (organizations) exist. These environmental characteristics provide impetus for researchers to focus on organizational planning for disruptive external forces that could threaten system stability and future system existence. The ES function supports the requisite governance metasystemic functions to be enabled, executed, and evolved sufficiently well to promote continuous system viability. In this research the functioning of ES was examined from a diverse literature-based perspective. The literature acknowledges the importance of the ES function, but its consistent development and its impact on system viability in a turbulent environment is not well developed from a Systems Theory-based perspective. This gap in knowledge was addressed in this research. This research examined metasystemic functions performed by ES across a broad literature base encompassing Systems Theory, CSG, Managerial Cybernetics, and ES from several fields of study. This research focused on the lack of explicit use of Systems Theory in ES functionality in metasystemic governance. This research presents a theoretical construct for the expansion of the functionality of ES in CSG that supports enhanced system viability. A rigorous research approach employing a constructivist Grounded Theory Method (GTM) was used to analyze the qualified research literature with a focus on Systems Theory to both consolidate and expand the known functionality of ES in CSG. This research provided a theoretical seventeen-function Systems Theory-based framework for ES in CSG. The overarching theory from this framework is that ES functions support complex system viability through regulation of internal and external variety that is induced by external changes. The literature-based identification of the ES functions demonstrates that ES operates in newly identified mechanisms, beyond the original identification provided by Keating & Katina (2016). A case study was undertaken to demonstrate face validation of the applicability of the emerging Systems Theory-based functions of ES in CSG in an applied setting where possible utility was developed. Topics for future research in ES functionality were identified

Complex system governance for critical cyber-physical systems

In cyber-physical system (CPS), software components (i.e., computational elements) are tightly intertwined with physical entities to produce distinguishing behavioral modalities. CPS, as a field, is relatively new, emerging, and somewhat fragmented in development. There are multiple agencies, entities, and activities being undertaken to address a nexus of emerging issues including cyber-threats and attack in critical systems. However, the development of CPS, as a field, albeit with good intentions and efforts, appears to be largely ‘self-organizing’. In response, we suggest governance, as posited in Complex System Governance, as an organizing construct for critical cyber-physical systems to provide more cohesion. Complex System Governance (CSG) is focused on design, execution, and evolution of ‘metasystem’ functions necessary to provide for communication, control, coordination, and integration (C3I) in CPS. First, we introduce the concept of critical CPS, emphasizing current domination of self-organization as the driving force in developing viable CPS. Second, a CSG model is introduced to suggest an alternative for more purposeful system design and evolution. The paper concludes implications for future research directions.JRC.C.3-Energy Security, Distribution and Market