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The purpose of this paper is to demonstrate how cybernetic theories open new paths towards organizational intelligence. This is illustrated by means of three theoretical models from organizational cybernetics. These models are integrated into a framework for a virtuous design, (self-)control and (self-)transformation of organizations. It is proposed that changes in activities, structure and behaviour ± three of the dimensions of this framework ± have to be synchronized among one another, and aligned with a fourth dimension: fundamental parameters such as organizational identity, ethos and vision. It is also claimed that a continued and integrative application of the models outlined can trace the path towards excelling organizational intelligence more effectively than merely punctual uses of one or more of them.

The authors advocate building a bridge between two systems approaches, namely system dynamics (SD) and the viable system model (VSM), which is the main exponent of organizational cybernetics (OC). Such a synthesis is aimed at opening a path towards a better capability of actors to deal with complex issues in both organizations and society. Given their respective strengthsmodeling and simulation of content issues in the case of SD, and providing a viable organizational context in the case of OC-a combination of the two approaches is claimed to be potentially fertile. That argument gets twofold support. Firstly, the complementarity of SD and the VSM is cogently shown. Secondly, the authors refer to examples of synergy development through a combination of the two approaches.

This paper introduces model-based theory building as a feature of system dynamics (SD) with large potential. It presents a systemic approach to actualizing that potential, thereby opening up a new perspective on theory building in the social sciences. The question addressed is if and how SD enables the construction of high-quality theories. This contribution is based on field experiment type projects which have been focused on model-based theory building, specifically the construction of a middle-range theory-not a general one. The process of model building and validation is analysed from a theorybuilding perspective. The resulting theory is evaluated by means of a set of criteria for high-quality theories. As a conclusion, the insights thus gained are presented and condensed in a tentative set of heuristic principles for model-based theory building.

The paper presents the elements of a new methodology to control complex and hypercomplex socioeconomic structures. The control process is iterative, combining the principles of System Dynamics, Control theory and the PROME-THEE Multicriteria Decision Aid (MCDA) methodology. It consists of three main stages: setting up and calibration of a quantitative model, de®nition of long-term strategies and short-term control. The purpose is to de®ne within a panel of decision makers appropriate strategies towards long-term goals, and to implement suitable control measures. These should in particular help cope with progressive and catastrophic variations in the behaviour of the system.