Interview Guide for Mapping SFSCs Using the Viable System Model

Description

The interview guide was designed to collect qualitative data on the organisational structure and functioning of the short food supply chain (SFSC) using the Viable System Model (VSM) as an analytical framework. The guide comprises a series of semi-structured questions organised around the five systemic functions of the VSM (Systems 1–5), enabling the exploration of operational activities, coordination mechanisms, control and monitoring practices, adaptive processes, and organisational identity. In addition, the questions capture key elements of the integrative framework, including the market engine (value-creation activities) and the core infrastructure (technical support functions). This structure supports the systematic mapping of empirical observations onto cybernetic functions, allowing the analysis of how organisational practices contribute to system coherence and viability.

Steps to reproduce

Steps to Reproduce the Interview 1. Define the Scope and Unit of Analysis Identify the SFSC to be studied. Define the focal organisation (e.g., enterprise coordinating sourcing, production, and sales). Establish system boundaries (which activities and actors are included/excluded). 2. Prepare the Interview Instrument Use the structured interview guide based on the Viable System Model (VSM). Ensure questions cover: System 1 (operations / market engine) System 2 (coordination) System 3 (control / core infrastructure) System 3* (audit / monitoring) System 4 (intelligence / adaptation) System 5 (policy / identity) Translate or adapt terminology to the local context if needed. 3. Select Participants Identify key organisational members involved in: production administration logistics/distribution sales/market interaction Aim for multi-role representation within the focal enterprise. Recruit 3–5 participants where possible. 4. Obtain Consent and Brief Participants Provide participants with: purpose of the study confidentiality assurances voluntary participation statement Obtain informed consent before starting. 5. Conduct Non-Participant Observation Visit: production facilities retail or market points Observe: production processes coordination practices customer interactions Record field notes without interfering with activities. 6. Conduct the Interview Use a semi-structured group interview format (recommended duration: ~2–3 hours). Follow the interview guide sequentially by systemic function. Encourage: role-specific responses group discussion for clarification Probe for examples (e.g., coordination issues, quality checks). 7. Record and Document Data Take detailed notes or audio record (if consented). Document: key statements examples observed practices Capture quotes that illustrate systemic functions. 8. Validate Responses During the Interview Use real-time clarification: confirm interpretations with participants resolve ambiguities immediately Encourage cross-validation among participants.

Categories

Funders

• Universidad Panamericana

  Mexico City

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