Facilitating foresight: where the foresight function is placed in organisations

The Viable Systems Model and in particular the Meta System component of that model is introduced, as a framework within which to consider how foresight can be facilitated in organisations.

Abstract

This paper will introduce the Viable Systems Model and in particular the Meta System component of that model, as a framework within which to consider how foresight can be facilitated in organisations. It will show how the System 4 function within the Meta-System is in a position to facilitate processes that will produce effectiveness and the development of overall system identity. It will also show how adopting another framework for understanding the paradigms or worldviews that operate in organisations can enhance the likelihood that these processes will be successful.