Three Perspectives for the Development of Sustainable Enterprises

Abstract

Contemporary companies have to master the handling of increasing dynamics and complexity. For this, the systems approach offers for a long time the right theory and the necessary tools to successfully deal with high dynamics and complexity. In practice, intelligent companies are needed that demonstrate a high degree of viability and sustainability. So it makes sense to think more concrete about sustainable enterprises. There are three perspectives on the development of sustainable enterprises. All three are important in themselves, but the development of sustainable enterprises must be integrated and systemic. Overall, the focus is on effectiveness, awareness-raising and competence in sustainable enterprises. It requires clarity, competence and consistency in implementation, effective change management and support from top management. Effectiveness is needed in organizations in management of organizations and in learning of organizations. In practice we need more and more the raising awareness of sustainability. In sustainable enterprises, it is clear that competences are dispositions for action, the ability to act and willingness to act as well as the responsibility. To develop sustainable enterprises, we use a mix of proven approaches, from systems theory to management expertise to learning organizations. What is needed is an interdisciplinary and integrated approach that enables the development of the sustainable enterprise. Here, science, management and management consulting must work closely together for realizing and developing sustainable enterprises.