Systems Theory

• Systems theory states groups are open systems, which are influenced by such independent variables as; openness to environment, interdependence, input variables, process variables, and output variables.
• Basically, Systems theory explains the process of inputs, processes, outputs, and environment which groups engage in.
• Systems Theory is Deterministic, because the environment and the resources provide the processes that are used to gain the correct outputs.
• Epistemological Assumptions: Scientific. Systems Theory is scientific because it is one truth, which states groups will use processes and their resources within their environment to develop the desired outputs.

General systems theory

• Human systems are like natural system

Basic concepts

• System (link between things and object)
• Environment
  • Open systems (e.g. human body–as long as object (human body) interactive with environment)
  • Closed systems (e.g. Sun)
• Elements

Properties of a system

• Interdependence e.g. the relationship between team member
• Wholeness (synergy)
• Hierarchy (a system made of smaller sub-system, and itself is a part of super-system)
• *Morphostasis – maintains a systems given form, organization, or state
• Equifinality – there are multiple ways to archive the same goal

Influences on Research

• View communication as an ongoing process
• View communication as mutual influence
• Inform theories
  • Coordinated Management of Meaning
  • Interactional view
  • Weick’s info. systems