,DPR2603 Assignment 1 2025 - (COMPLETE ANSWERS)
Semester 1 2025)- DUE 24 March 2025
Question 1
In relation to some of the theoretical paradigms you have
engaged with, discuss the Systems Perspective, using your own
words and provide Weick’s views on it.
The term organization can be viewed in different ways based on
its purpose and function. In your own words, define the term
organization.
[6 marks].
Question 1
The Systems Perspective in Organizational
Theory
The Systems Perspective is a theoretical framework
used to understand organizations as dynamic and
interconnected entities. It sees an organization as a
system, meaning it is made up of different
interdependent components that function together to
achieve a common purpose. This approach is rooted
in systems theory, which was developed in the mid-
20th century and applied to various disciplines,
including business and management.
, The Systems Perspective argues that organizations
do not operate in isolation. Instead, they exist within
an external environment that influences their
operations. Organizations receive inputs from the
environment (such as raw materials, human
resources, and information), process these inputs
internally through various systems and structures,
and then produce outputs (such as products,
services, and decisions) that are released back into
the environment. The environment provides
feedback, which helps the organization adapt and
improve over time.
Key Characteristics of the Systems Perspective:
1. Interdependence – Different parts of an
organization (departments, teams, employees)
rely on each other to function effectively. For
example, a company’s sales team depends on the
marketing department to generate leads.
2. Open vs. Closed Systems – Open systems
interact with their external environment, while
closed systems operate independently. Most
organizations are open systems because they
depend on customers, suppliers, and
competitors.
Semester 1 2025)- DUE 24 March 2025
Question 1
In relation to some of the theoretical paradigms you have
engaged with, discuss the Systems Perspective, using your own
words and provide Weick’s views on it.
The term organization can be viewed in different ways based on
its purpose and function. In your own words, define the term
organization.
[6 marks].
Question 1
The Systems Perspective in Organizational
Theory
The Systems Perspective is a theoretical framework
used to understand organizations as dynamic and
interconnected entities. It sees an organization as a
system, meaning it is made up of different
interdependent components that function together to
achieve a common purpose. This approach is rooted
in systems theory, which was developed in the mid-
20th century and applied to various disciplines,
including business and management.
, The Systems Perspective argues that organizations
do not operate in isolation. Instead, they exist within
an external environment that influences their
operations. Organizations receive inputs from the
environment (such as raw materials, human
resources, and information), process these inputs
internally through various systems and structures,
and then produce outputs (such as products,
services, and decisions) that are released back into
the environment. The environment provides
feedback, which helps the organization adapt and
improve over time.
Key Characteristics of the Systems Perspective:
1. Interdependence – Different parts of an
organization (departments, teams, employees)
rely on each other to function effectively. For
example, a company’s sales team depends on the
marketing department to generate leads.
2. Open vs. Closed Systems – Open systems
interact with their external environment, while
closed systems operate independently. Most
organizations are open systems because they
depend on customers, suppliers, and
competitors.
