Function support as an information systems development paradigm

The function support paradigm of information systems development seeks to exploit the potential synergy that can be obtained by making the information processing system an integral part of organizational function. This requires for the information processing system to be embedded into the structure and dynamics underlying the function it supports. This is shown to be the case in natural systems, where the synergy is obtained through the compatibility of information processing with the structure and dynamics of the overall system.

Current approaches to the development of information systems do not consider, in a sufficiently explicit manner, the structure and dynamics of organizations as a determinant of their information processing requirements. As a consequence, the resulting information systems usually do not provide the required level of support. We argue that, to be effective, man‐made information systems must also be compatible with the organizational functions they support. The contribution of the information system to the adaptability of the organization as a whole is proposed as a broad but robust and effective measure of its effectiveness.