Living systems theory: A framework for management

This article deals with living systems of all types at the level of the organization. It outlines a seven‐step procedure for applying living systems theory (LST) to achieve effective management in a business enterprise. The invariant nature of LST makes it applicable to any type of organization and enhances its utility as a general theory of business. Eliminated is the need to develop separate theoretical frameworks which are dependent on organization type. The seven steps focus on identifying process structures and critical matter/energy and information flows necessary for an organization to achieve its goals.