This,
in effect, prevents rapid changes that may unbalance the system.
In contrast, adaptive activities are necessary so that the system
can adjust over time to variations in internal and external demands.
So whereas one seeks stability and preservation of the
status quo through the purchase, maintenance, and overhaul of
machinery; recruitment and training of employees; and mechanisms
such as the provision and enforcement of rules and procedures,
the other focuses on change through planning, market
research, new-product development, and the like.
Both maintenance and adaptive activities are required if a system
is to survive. Stable well-maintained organizations that
not adapt as conditions change will not endure long. Similarly,
adaptive but unstable organization will be inefficient and unlikely
to survive for