Modeling and evaluation of variable structure organizations

Abstract : Variable structure organizations are defined as decisionmaking organizations in which the pattern of interactions between decisionmakers can vary. A quantitative methodology is developed to evaluate their Effectiveness in the achievement of their mission. A model of these organizations using Predicate Transition Nets is presented, in which the decisionmakers are treated as an ordinary resource. The decisionmakers are modeled by tokens that move from one pattern of interactions to the other, depending on designer defined protocols. An example of a three member variable structure organization carrying out an air defense task is presented. In that organization, the Headquarters sets the pattern of interactions of the Field Units according to the characteristics of the incoming signals. Ranges of mission requirements are computed in which this variable organization is the most effective, when compared to corresponding organizations with a fixed structure of interactions.