TASCOI analysis is a mnemonic and analytical tool used to define the identity of a system or organization by categorizing its specific stakeholder relationships and core purpose. It is often employed within the Viable System Model (VSM) and the Viplan methodology to help stakeholders articulate their viewpoints, reach agreements, and align their purposes to coordinate actions.
The acronym TASCOI stands for the following six elements:
- T (Transformation): What the system changes from one state into another (input into output).
- A (Actors): Those who carry out the transformation process.
- S (Suppliers): Those who supply the transformation process.
- C (Customers): Those who receive the transformed product or service.
- O (Owners): Those responsible for ensuring the transformation happens.
- I (Interveners): Those with an interest in the process.
Context and Application
TASCOI is considered a variant of the CATWOE analysis (Customers, Actors, Transformation, Worldview, Owners, and Environmental constraints) used in Soft Systems Methodology (SSM). It is particularly useful when designing a new system or solving problems because it helps define the perception of the person seeking the solution regarding the purpose of the system.
In the context of the Viable System Model, TASCOI analysis is recommended as a tool to help clarify the organizational actors responsible for the main organizational transformation. Once the different elements of the mnemonic are identified, they can be linked together to form a statement that defines the organizational identity.
Sources: 1. Espejo, R., & Reyes, A. (2011). Organizational systems: Managing complexity with the viable system model. Springer. 2. Hoverstadt, P. (2008). The fractal organization: Creating sustainable organizations with the viable system model. John Wiley & Sons. 3. Jackson, Michael. (2019). Critical Systems Thinking and the Management of Complexity – (John Wiley & Sons). & Jackson, Michael. (2024). Critical systems thinking: A practitioner’s guide – John Wiley & Sons.