Bistability occurs when one data set produces two mutually exclusive interpretations that cannot be held in awareness simultaneously (Cacioppo et al., 1996). Bohr (1955) concluded that multiple interpretations support the existence of different cultures. Further, given the importance of feedback to social dynamics (Lawless et al., 2007), rapid shifts between bistable perceptions increase uncertainty in the non-observed perception which not only underwrites social problems between different groups, but also supports the existence of an uncertainty principle.
Published in Chapter:
Applying an Organizational Uncertainty Principle: Semantic Web-Based Metrics
Joseph Wood (LTC, US Army, USA), Hui-Lien Tung (Paine College, USA), Tina Marshall-Bradley (Paine College, USA), Donald A. Sofge (Naval Research Laboratory, USA), James Grayson (Augusta State University, USA), Margo Bergman (Northwest Health Services Research & Development (HSR&D), USA), and W.F. Lawless (Paine College, USA)
Copyright: © 2009
|Pages: 20
DOI: 10.4018/978-1-60566-650-1.ch024
Abstract
The theory of bistable perceptions in the interaction indicates the existence of an uncertainty principle with effects amplified at the organizational level. Traditional theory of the interaction, organizational theory, and the justification for an organizational uncertainty principle are reviewed. The organizational uncertainty principle predicts counterintuitive effects that can be exploited with the Semantic Web to formulate a set of metrics for organizational performance. As a preliminary test of the principle, metrics derived from it are applied to two case studies, both works in progress, with the first as an ongoing large system-wide application of web-based metrics for organizational performance and the second as a case study of a small college where web-based metrics are being considered and constructed. In preparation for the possibility of machine-based real-time metrics afforded by the Semantic Web, the results demonstrate a successful theory and application in the field of an uncertainty principle for organizations.