Task B1.2: Missing Parts

What is Task B1.2?

Task B1.2 is part of the "Orient" phase in the Viability Canvas methodology, specifically within the "Review the results of the Analysis" step (Step B1). This task instructs you to "Note which parts are missing, i.e., VSM systems which do not have a valid representation in the existing organization."

Purpose of Identifying Missing Parts

The purpose of this task is to identify gaps in the organization's structure that could compromise its viability. This serves several important functions:

1. Revealing structural weaknesses: Identifying key functions that are absent from the organization
2. Highlighting vulnerability areas: Pinpointing where the organization might be at risk
3. Creating focus for improvement: Providing clear targets for organizational development
4. Preventing oversights: Ensuring critical functions aren't overlooked in improvement planning
5. Setting priorities: Helping determine which gaps most urgently need to be addressed

By identifying missing parts, you create awareness of the structural gaps that need to be filled to enhance organizational viability.

Understanding Missing Parts

In the context of the Viability Canvas, "missing parts" refers to essential VSM functions that:

• Have no corresponding function or structure in the existing organization
• Exist only nominally but lack the resources or authority to be effective
• Are performed ad-hoc without formal recognition or support
• Have been intentionally or unintentionally neglected

These missing parts represent vulnerabilities that could threaten the organization's ability to maintain its identity and adapt to its environment.

How to Complete Task B1.2

To identify missing parts in your VSM analysis:

1. Review each VSM subsystem for completeness:
   • System 1: Are any critical operational functions missing?
   • System 2: Are coordination mechanisms absent or insufficient?
   • System 3: Is operational management adequately staffed and empowered?
   • System 3*: Do audit and feedback mechanisms exist?
   • System 4: Are future-focused functions present and effective?
   • System 5: Is there a clear identity function?
2. Examine communication channels for gaps:
   • Are channels missing between key subsystems?
   • Are algedonic (alarm) channels in place?
   • Are resource bargaining channels effective?
3. Consider vital functions that might be overlooked:
   • Environmental scanning
   • Strategic planning
   • Internal coordination
   • Performance monitoring
   • Identity maintenance
4. Document missing parts with specificity:
   • Which exact VSM function is missing
   • Why this function is considered essential
   • What consequences might result from its absence
   • How its absence affects other parts of the system
5. Prioritize the gaps based on:
   • Potential impact on viability
   • Urgency of addressing the gap
   • Feasibility of implementing the missing function

Example Application

In an application of the Viability Canvas to a manufacturing company:

"The team identified several critical missing parts in their organization: there was no formal System 2 mechanism for coordinating between production units, leading to frequent conflicts and inefficiencies; System 3* auditing was performed sporadically without a systematic approach; and System 4 functions were severely underdeveloped, with no dedicated resources for environmental scanning or strategic planning. They noted that the absence of these functions made the organization highly reactive and vulnerable to market changes."

By identifying these missing parts, the team could focus their improvement efforts on establishing these critical functions to enhance organizational viability.

Strategic Considerations for Identifying Missing Parts

When identifying missing parts in your VSM analysis:

1. Look beyond formal structures: Functions might exist informally or be performed by individuals without official recognition
2. Consider effectiveness, not just existence: A function might technically exist but be too weak to fulfill its purpose
3. Assess relative development: Some functions might exist but be underdeveloped compared to others
4. Evaluate historical patterns: Functions might have existed previously but been eliminated or degraded
5. Check for substitutions: Inappropriate substitutions might occur when proper functions are missing (e.g., System 3 micromanaging due to missing System 2)

By thoroughly identifying missing parts in the VSM structure, you create a critical foundation for designing improvements that will enhance organizational viability and resilience.