GOAL COMPLEX
Charles François (2004). GOAL COMPLEX, International Encyclopedia of Systems and Cybernetics, 2(1): 1439.
| Collection | International Encyclopedia of Systems and Cybernetics |
|---|---|
| Year | 2004 |
| Vol. (num.) | 2(1) |
| ID | ◀ 1439 ▶ |
| Object type | General information, Human sciences |
A hierarchical ordering of the goals and subgoals of a system (according to D.M. Mc KAY, 1969, p.112).
Complex systems are necessarily hierarchized because their global goal and principal subsidiary goals can be reached only through the orderly attainment of a number of lesser previous subgoals.
For example, to go out, I must first open the door. To open the door, I must first handle the knob. Therefore I must first move my arm and my hand, etc.
The correct ordering of a proper sequence of subgoals is an unavoidable need in order to reach a specified goal. Therefore, each and every subsystem concerned must function correctly at the precise instant.
See also
Priority of the simple