Conceptual framework for system analysis of family-run agricultural enterprises. (3rd July 2016)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Gabriel, Andreas; Bitsch, Vera; Menrad, Klaus
• Is Part Of: Journal of small business and entrepreneurship. Volume 28:Number 4(2016)
• Page Start: 325
• Page End: 344
• Publication Date: 2016-07-03
• Subjects: agricultural enterprises -- conceptual framework -- family-run enterprises -- management cybernetics -- system analysis; entreprises agricoles -- cadre conceptuel -- les entreprises familiales -- la cybernétique de gestion -- l'analyse du système; Small business -- Periodicals; Small business -- Canada -- Periodicals; Entrepreneurship -- Periodicals; Petites et moyennes entreprises -- Périodiques; Petites et moyennes entreprises -- Canada -- Périodiques; Entrepreneurs (Économie politique) -- Périodiques; 658.022
• DOI: 10.1080/08276331.2016.1205914
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0827-6331

Abstract

Abstract : The article discusses the relevance of system analysis approaches for family-run agricultural enterprises with their complex structures, and challenges. A conceptual framework for system analysis of family-run agricultural enterprises, considering the interdisciplinary and integrating principles of system theory and management cybernetics, is developed. A comparison of system-oriented modeling of such enterprises with exclusively analytical and single-discipline methods of business analysis demonstrates the benefits of system approaches. Situational knowledge of specific internal structures and the business environment of family-run agricultural enterprises can be used to enrich the framework. Managers and business consultants of these enterprises benefit from a better understanding of interrelations within the enterprises to cope with complexity. The concept further allows a differentiated analysis of management and owner-manager behavior, and of conflicting needs of enterprise and family. The adapted framework helps practitioners to use the basic system structure to execute a goal-oriented system analysis of agricultural enterprises.