Loosely and Tightly Coupled Systems from Karl Weick

The video discusses the concepts of loose and tight coupling in organizations, based on systems theory. Tight coupling involves strong interdependence and centralization, where changes in one part affect others immediately. Loose coupling, on the other hand, allows for flexibility and decentralization, with weaker dependencies. Examples from various sectors illustrate these concepts, highlighting the advantages and challenges of each approach.

What does the concept of coupling in organizations primarily refer to?

• The physical distance between departments

• The strength of connections between parts of a system

• The number of employees in an organization

• The financial stability of a company

In a tightly coupled system, what is a common characteristic regarding decision-making?

• Decisions are made independently by each department

• Decisions are made quickly without any hierarchy

• Decisions often require approval from central hubs

• Decisions are made by external consultants

What is a potential downside of a tightly coupled system when a problem occurs?

• The system becomes more efficient

• The issue can cascade and cause widespread disruption

• The problem is resolved quickly without any impact

• The problem is isolated and does not affect other areas

How does a loosely coupled system handle disruptions differently from a tightly coupled system?

• It stops all operations until the issue is resolved

• It continues to operate with minimal impact

• It relies on external support to manage disruptions

• It requires immediate intervention from top management

What is a key feature of loosely coupled systems in terms of organizational structure?

• They have a rigid hierarchy

• They are highly centralized

• They allow for flexibility and adaptability

• They depend on a single point of failure

Which of the following is an example of a loosely coupled organization?

• A tightly controlled manufacturing plant

• A university with independent departments

• A small family-owned business

• A centralized corporate office

What advantage does a decentralized system have over a centralized one?

• It allows for independent operation of different parts

• It has a slower decision-making process

• It is more vulnerable to disruptions

• It requires more resources to operate