Question

a) Explain the mechanism of cybernetic control.

b) In order to establish total control over a system, the controller must be able to take counteraction for every action the system can take. Elaborate on strategies that can be taken by the project managers to develop a cybernetic control system.

Answer 1

a) Mechanism of cybernetic control.

Cybernetic control is apparent in all parts of nature and innovation. It happens when a closed framework directs itself utilizing a feedback circle/loop. Examples are safety valve on a steam engine, computers and human brain.

In a simple cybernetic control, the system receives an input which undergoes certain process and turns into output. It is this process which is actually controlled in the cybernetic system. And for this the output is measured or analyzed so as to know if the system or the process was properly done. So here the work performed is analyzed and monitored and the corrective actions are taken for the discrepancies or if anything have gone wrong.

As the project gets large and complicated, this system also gets complicated.

‘Diagram 1’ represents this loop. Refer the attachment.

b) In order to establish total control over a system, the controller must be able to take counteraction for every action the system can take. Elaborate on strategies that can be taken by the project managers to develop a cybernetic control system.

For a project manager to develop a cybernetic control system for its project they can take up the following strategies:

- Finalizing the project details: The manager should write in detail the minute things regarding the project and divide the same into different stages of completion. This should also be communicated with the team members who are involved in the project at each level so as to ensure that they do not deviate from the same.

- Assign every one with proper duties and authorities: They can also divide and group the team assigned for the project such that they are provided with proper positions and authorities for decision making on several situations. This would also help in proper reporting and consultation during difficulties which would foster the timely completion of the project.

- Setting Standards: There should be proper standards set with respect to the budget to be incurred and the system to be carried out. This would provide the team members with a scale which can be used by them to compare themselves and their performance so as to take a corrective action if required.

- Proper Monitoring: The manager’s job will not be done when all the standers are set and the details are given to the team. He or she should also conduct a proper monitoring from time to time regarding the works done so as to turn the input into the required output.