Self-organising system

From Organic Design wiki

Is there a name for the concept of something changing in accord with its own structure?

Yes, there is a name for the concept of something changing in accord with its own structure. It's called "self-organisation."

Self-organisation refers to the process by which a system spontaneously arranges itself into a more complex or ordered state without external intervention. The system's components interact with each other and respond to feedback from the environment to produce emergent patterns and structures.

Self-organization is a common phenomenon in nature and can be observed in various systems, including biological, physical, and social systems. Examples include the formation of snowflakes, the behaviour of ant colonies, the development of organs in embryos, and the emergence of traffic jams.


What is organisation?

An organisation refers to a structured group of individuals who come together to achieve common goals and objectives. It can be a formal entity, such as a corporation, government agency, or non-profit organisation, or an informal group with a shared purpose.

Organisations are typically characterised by a defined structure, roles, and responsibilities, along with established systems and processes. They have specific aims or missions that guide their activities and often operate within a framework of rules and regulations.

Organisations can vary widely in size, scope, and nature. They can be local, national, or international in their reach. Some organisations are focused on generating profit and are known as for-profit or commercial organisations. Others, such as non-profit organisations, are primarily driven by social, humanitarian, or environmental goals.

Key elements of an organization include:

  • Structure: Organizations have a hierarchical structure that outlines the different levels of authority and reporting relationships. This structure helps to define roles, responsibilities, and decision-making processes.
  • Goals and Objectives: Organisations have specific aims or objectives they seek to achieve. These goals can range from financial targets to social impact goals, depending on the nature of the organisation.
  • Resources: Organisations require resources, such as human capital, financial capital, physical infrastructure, technology, and information, to carry out their activities effectively.
  • Processes and Systems: Organisations develop various processes, systems, and procedures to streamline operations, manage resources, and achieve their objectives efficiently. This includes areas like governance, finance, human resources, marketing, and operations.
  • Culture and Values: Organisations often have a unique culture and set of values that guide their behaviour and decision-making. This culture may be influenced by factors such as leadership style, mission, vision, and the collective beliefs and norms of the people within the organisation.

Overall, organisations serve as a means for individuals to work together, coordinate efforts, and achieve common objectives in a structured and purposeful manner.