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