Document Type
Thesis
Date of Award
1-31-1991
Degree Name
Master of Science in Management - (M.S.)
Department
School of Industrial Management
First Advisor
Gordon Kalley
Second Advisor
C. DePree
Third Advisor
L. G. Nicholoyoulo
Fourth Advisor
John Murphy
Abstract
A review of the literature showed that relatively little attention has been given to the application of feedback and control systems to management. Since a major function of management is control, scientific management might offer assistance in the form of a more quantitative approach to management control. This thesis suggests one might accomplish this through the application of feedback and control systems.
The application of feedback and control theory to management systems is relatively new, however, literature has shown a trend towards the application of electrical engineering theory to non-engineering topics [Khranovich76]. There has also been some research in the area of organizational modeling [Friesen86]. However, no research has been completed in the application of feedback and control theory to organizational modeling.
This investigation attempts to illustrate how feedback system models can simulate the flow of information, and the delays of decision response, thereby providing the manager with a means of analyzing the structure of the organization's communication network as well as the allocation of resources throughout the system. This approach is demonstrated through the derivation of a model of an organization using feedback and control theory.
Behavior of the model was then simulated by propagating bits of information through processes and feedback-loops via various transmission signals. Limitations of the system resulted in a graphic description of time delays, information bottlenecks, and lost information due to limited capacity.
Recommended Citation
Tamas, Thomas Miklos, "The application of feedback and control system theory to organizational modeling" (1991). Theses. 2633.
https://digitalcommons.njit.edu/theses/2633
