Principle of Suboptimization

Optimizing each subsystem independently will not in general lead to a system optimum, or more strongly, improvement of a particular subsystem may actually worsen the overall system. The principle of suboptimization provides the basis for a link between organizational structure and the policies adopted. (Machol, 1965, pp. l-8) See also suboptimization. The well-being of an element is dependent on the well-being of the system of which it is a part. It is sometimes necessary for an element to limit its goals and actions in order to preserve the well-being of the system. In acting to achieve its goals one element may come to constrain the actions of another element to the point of serious injury to the other element.