Exploring the complexity of sugarcane supply chains via systemic approaches

Abstract

Purpose This paper aims to explore the complexity that characterises sugarcane production and supply systems by applying soft systems methodology (SSM) and the viable system model (VSM) based on an interpretive systemic approach. It seeks to understand the extent to which these methodologies may assist in exploring such a complexity. Design/methodology/approach SSM and VSM were combined with qualitative research methods to explore two sugarcane production and supply systems’ potential improvement possibilities. Findings Trust, transparency and communication shortcomings, poor miller–grower relationships, deficient systemic commitment, insular view, milling inefficiencies, sugarcane quality, quantity and consistency shortcomings, the industry setup and the lack of a common driver are core issues. SSM and VSM facilitated a thorough understanding, yet could not address detected deficiencies. Research limitations/implications The research was restricted to two milling areas, and only SSM and VSM were applied. Practical implications Presented findings can be used as a basis to facilitate improvement in sugarcane production and supply systems and to advocate the continuity of holistic considerations. Originality/value Neither SSM nor VSM have been applied in the sugar industry context. The sugarcane production and supply systems have been holistically investigated, and soft issues have been considered.

A Methodological Proposal for the Complementarity of the SSM and the VSM for the Analysis of Viability in Organizations

“…For , SSM, like VSM, is a highly efficient methodology for organizational intervention. Some authors have used SSM and VSM together (Bustard, Sterritt, Taleb-Bendiab, & Laws, 2006;Ganzert, Martinelli, & Delai, 2012;Hildbrand & Bodhanya, 2017;Kinloch, Francis, Francis, & Taylor, 2009;Liboni, Cezarino, Caldana, & Donaires, 2015;Luckett, Ngubane, & Memela, 2001) to try to respond to problems in various sectors; however, these attempts are few and far between. and Hanafizadeh & Mehrabioun (2018) report 11 papers that use SSM and VSM together; nonetheless, according to our literature review, only 9 of them really integrate both methodologies.…”

“…(Liboni et al, 2015) The authors use VSM as part of SSM's fourth stage to construct conceptual models. (Hildbrand & Bodhanya, 2017) SSM and VSM are used, together with qualitative research methods, to explore possibilities for the improvement of two sugarcane production and supply systems. This research highlights the importance of both methodologies for dealing with complex systems; however, they are used separately.…”

“…However, the system in focus is not recognized and VSM is not unfolded. Other authors, like Bustard et al (2006), Ormerod (2005), and Hildbrand & Bodhanya (2017), use SSM and VSM in conjunction with other approaches to tackle specific system-based problem situations. Another study, carried out with a computational system by Bustard et al (2006), proposes the integration of SSM and VSM for the generation of autonomous systems and their environment.…”

The viable system model and its applications in higher education: an overview

“…It was mainly developed by Stafford Beer who was the pioneer in applying Cybernetics in the field of management, he succeeded in building the framework of OC by developing the VSM in his book "The Heart of Enterprise" (Pérez Ríos, 2010;Pérez Ríos, 2012). Beer's OC is considered as a methodological framework which can be used to design viable systems in the context of complexity management (Parra et al, 2017).With the aid of OC and VSM analysis, Beer provided the necessary conditions for complex systems to be viable (Pérez Ríos, 2012;Hildbrand and Bodhanya, 2017). Beer explained that to be viable is to be able to survive, face environmental changes and be effective (Beer, 1985;Jackson, 1991).…”

Exploring Leadership Effectiveness of Engineers at a Company in the Sugar Industry in South Africa

“…The sugar industry in South Africa has in recent years faced many challenges as highlighted in previous research [4,5,6,7,8,9]. Several studies on leadership effectiveness have been conducted both globally and locally [10].…”