Systems theory

This presentation offers an understanding of the systems theory as it relates to management

1. Systems theory By: Charles mhango Charity kasawala Violet khonje George Nsitu

2. outline Introduction Background Characteristics of a system theory Elements of a system Types of a system Strengths Limitations Use of the theory in health care improvement

3. introduction Several management theories have evolved over a period of time Systems theory is one of the important theories in management The presentation offers an understanding of the systems theory as it relates to management

4. Background of the theory General systems theory was proposed in the 1940s by the biologist Ludwig von Bertalanffy It was furthered by Ross Ashby in 1964 Ludwig von Bertalanffy was reacting against both reductionism and attempting to revive the unity of science

5. Background of the theory Reductionists believe that a complex system is nothing but its parts

6. Description of systems theory S ystem theory provides approach to understanding, analyzing and thinking about organizations S ystems theory views an organization as an organism made up of numerous parts (subsystems) that must work together in harmony for the larger system to succeed

7. Description of systems theory Departments , work groups, business units, facilities and individual employees can all be viewed as subsystems of the organizations

8. Description of systems theory Believes that organizational success relies on; Synergy (combined output) Interdependence between subsystems Interconnections within the organization between the organization and the environment

9. Characteristics of systems theory Communication Communication mechanisms must be in place for organizational systems to exchange relevant information with its environment Provides for the flow of information among the subsystems

10. Characteristics of systems theory Systems, subsystems and supersystem Systems: set interrelated parts that turn inputs into outputs through processing Subsystems: do the processing Super systems: are other systems in the environment that the system is dependent on

11. Characteristics of systems theory Boundaries Separates system from its environment Four types; Physical Boundary - prevents access (security system) Linguistic Boundary - specialized language ( jargon) Systemic Boundary - rules that regulate interaction ( titles) Psychological Boundary - restricts communication (stereotypes, prejudices )

12. Characteristics of systems theory Goal-directedness Systems are goal oriented and engage in feedback in order to meet the goals of the organisation

13. Characteristics of systems theory Holistic view Systems theory focuses on the arrangement of and relations between the parts that connect them into a whole The mutual interaction of the parts makes the whole bigger than the parts themselves

14. BASIC ELEMENTS OF A SYSTEM Input Maintenance Inputs ( energic imports that sustain system) Production Inputs ( energic imports which are processed to yield a productive outcome) Throughput Work done on those resources used to produce a product

15. BASIC ELEMENTS OF A SYSTEM Output Exit or change exiting the system System returns the product to the environment Process Provides a series of mechanical or chemical operations on something in order to change or preserve it

16. BASIC ELEMENTS OF A SYSTEM Feedback Information about a reaction to a product Used as basis for improvement Can be; Positive Feedback - move from status quo Negative Feedback - return to status quo

17. BASIC ELEMENTS OF A SYSTEM INPUT THROUGHTPUT PROCESS OUTPUT ENVIRONMENT ENVIRONMENT FEEDBACK SYSTEM

18. Types of a system OPEN SYSTEM Continuously interacts with the environment There is exchange of materials, energies and information with the environment CLOSED SYSTEM Theoretical systems that do not interact with the environment N ot influenced by surroundings

19. Strengths of systems theory Deals with complexity Takes a holistic view Can easily manage change through interaction with the environment Utilises feedback – easy to improve Recognises importance of supersystems

20. Limitations of systems theory in management Not a prescriptive management theory Does not specify tools and techniques for practicing managers Too abstract – difficult to apply in practical problems Does not adequately address power and social inequalities and their causes

21. How can systems theory help improve quality of health care in Malawi ? (discussion)

22. summary Systems Theory is NOT a prescriptive management theory Attempts to widen lens through which we examine and understand organizational behavior Emphasizes on communication Organizations cannot be separated from their environment Views the organization as a whole Organizational subsystems cannot operate in isolation

23. Reference Yoder-Wise, P.S. (2011). Leading and Managing in Nursing (5 th ed.). St. Louis: Mosby. Sullivan, E.J. & Decker, P.J. (1992). Effective Leadership and Management in Nursing (3 rd ed.). Redwood: Addison-Wesley. Petula , S. (2005). Can Applying Systems Theory Improve Quality in Health Systems? National Association for Healthcare Quality. Retrieved from www.nahq.org/uploads/JHQQNol.pdf Savigny , D. D., & Adam, T. (2009). Systems Thinking for Health Systems Strengthening . World Health Organization .

24. Thank you