Vectorial flow graph—a concept for the analysis of generalized feedback systems

The use of flow-graph techniques for the analysis of complex feedback systems like those encountered in real life economic problems has met with considerable difficulty in the enumeration of chain graphs. Taking note of a basic feature of such systems, viz. the possibility of categorizing the interacting nodes into distinct classes of nodes, the concept of a vectorial flow graph is introduced. The axioms governing such graphs, their properties and the rules of manipulation are described. The analysis of a complex economic system is given as an illustration.