Hitchins’ Viable Systems Model

The AI team take a deep dive into Professor Hitchins concept of reference models for understanding systems, introducing his Generic Reference Model (GRM) from 1992, which encompasses form, function, and behavior. The text elaborates on these three aspects and then presents the Hitchins Viable Systems Model (H-VSM) as an evolution of the GRM’s function model. The H-VSM is depicted as a layered model for analyzing open, autonomous, and viable systems, applicable to various entities from individuals to organizations. Practical application of the H-VSM through an Open/Operational Systems Engineering (OSE) approach is described, emphasizing mission and viability management. They also discuss how the H-VSM can be instantiated for dynamic simulations, such as a naval destroyer in combat, and even anthropomorphically. Ultimately, Hitchins presents a comprehensive framework for understanding and designing effective systems.