The Viable System Model

The Viable System Model (VSM) is a framework for understanding how organizations and complex systems stay alive and adaptable. It breaks down an organization into five interconnected parts that handle different functions like managing strategy, operations, monitoring, and adapting to change. These parts work together to ensure the system remains viable—able to survive and thrive—by maintaining stability while responding to new challenges. Essentially, VSM shows how to design or analyze organizations so they are efficient, resilient, and capable of continuous growth in a changing environment.