title: The analysis of distributed control and information processing in adaptive systems: a biologically motivated approach.
abstract: Biological systems have evolved hierarchical, distributed control structures that greatly enhance their adaptability. Two important determinants of biological adaptability considered here are: (i) the pattern of distribution of self-control capabilities; (ii) the degree of programmability of information processing. In this paper we model organizations as goal-oriented, adaptive systems, possessing properties similar to those of biological systems. We use the notion of implicit control (defined as the capability of self-control that is embedded in a system's own dynamics) in the analysis of the impact of specific patterns of distribution of control and information processing on the adaptability of organizations. A principle of design of organizational information systems, that captures important aspects of adaptability-preserving strategies of information processing in biological systems, is stated in terms of the implicit control concept.
authors.affiliation: School of Engineering, University of Michigan-Dearborn 48128.
authors.forename: R R
authors.initials: RR
authors.lastname: Kampfner
mesh_terms: D000220:Adaptation, Biological; D005075:Biological Evolution; D003491:Cybernetics; D007256:Information Systems; D009938:Organizations; D013598:Systems Theory