Governance for intelligent organizations: a cybernetic contribution

Purpose – This paper aims to revisit the viable system model (VSM) discussing it from both the theoreticaland the empirical standpoints, and ascertaining its relevance for organizational governance.
Design/methodology/approach – A combination of theoretical and empirical components is used: introduction to theory and critique on the one hand; case studies and a large sample empirical study on the
other.
Findings – The VSM has proved to be a powerful means of governance for organizations in turbulent times. It conveys a durable, reliable knowledge. This has been corroborated in both case studies and a large-scale empirical study.
Practical implications – Application of the model under study can activate a huge potential for the improvement of organizations.
Originality/value – This contribution tests the VSM in an unseen fashion – qualitatively and quantitatively. The results suggest that a high confidence in the model is justified. It conveys to managers
and leaders an unconventional, superior approach to both diagnosis and design of their organizations.