Title: Metasystem communication in governance of complex systems

Authors: Charles W. Chesterman Jr.; David C. Walters; Kevin MacGregor Adams

Addresses: Frank Batten College of Engineering and Technology, Old Dominion University, 1105 Engineering Systems Building, Norfolk, VA 23529, USA ' Frank Batten College of Engineering and Technology, Old Dominion University, 1105 Engineering Systems Building, Norfolk, VA 23529, USA ' Information Technology Program, University of Maryland University College, 3501 University Blvd. East Adelphi, MD 20783, USA

Abstract: Governance of complex systems to achieve goals, even while experiencing change, is accomplished by metasystem functions through a set of communication channels. This paper will explore the structure of these communication channels, the content of what is communicated and the activities of the metasystem functions with respect to these communication channels. Additionally, there will be an identification of associated implications in governance of complex systems when there is the absence of specific communication channels. Finally, there will be recommendations for future research.

Keywords: metasystem design; metasystem communication; system governance; system of systems; systems theory; complex systems.

DOI: 10.1504/IJSSE.2015.068808

International Journal of System of Systems Engineering, 2015 Vol.6 No.1/2, pp.101 - 111

Received: 22 Oct 2014
Accepted: 30 Oct 2014
Published online: 13 Apr 2015 *

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