Equifinality means that there is more than one way for multiple groups to achieve the same thing. This has a positive impact on small groups because it allows each system to play to the strengths of its members. For example, at the risk of using too many hockey analogies, two teams that are playing against each other can use different strategies to win. If one of the teams is very good at scoring goals, that doesn't mean that the other team can't win; if the other team plays defense really well, they can try to keep the score low and win by playing solid defense. Like the book says, "there's more than one way to skin a cat."
Entropy can lead a group off track if the members of the group aren't careful. Failure of group members to communicate effectively could create ambiguity or conflict between members of the group. For example, a group that is trying to do a project for school will be disorganized and stall out if the people in the group don't meet up or at least keep in touch through email or text; in other words, no communication equals more confusion and less progress. But if everyone in a group contributes equally and works efficiently, the group will likely be more focused and able to accomplish what it set out to do.
I liked your hockey team analogy to explain the concept of equifinality. To me, watching teams work to achieve the same thing (a win) but using different methods that work with the abilities of each player and the team’s ability to mesh together is what keeps sports so interesting. I’ve been involved in a board of director group whose members come and go. The board always works toward the same goals, but how it accomplishes those goals varies depending on the strengths and abilities of the individual members at the time and how well they mesh as group.
ReplyDeleteI agree with you that “entropy can lead a group off track if the members of the group aren't careful.” I used to belong to a group that experienced entropy and eventually broke apart. The same small group of people (a closed system) kept coming to a monthly meeting over the years and eventually infighting and lack of fresh ideas caused the group to degrade (entropy) and eventually fall apart.
I really liked the way you used hockey as an example to put in words what equifinality means. The analogy of the two teams exercising their strengths really emphasizes the fact that a group must play to the strength of its members in order to become successful unit.
ReplyDeleteI also agree with your statement that no communication equals more confusion and less progress, which stresses how important it is to have communication channels established among group members. As well, most times it is crucial to set time aside in which the group can meet in person for face-to-face interaction and discussion.
Hi Burgs,
ReplyDeleteI really enjoyed reading your post about Entropy and Equifinality. I thought you gave a great definition of both and explained it really well. I believe that both need to be balanced in order to work together and help with a small group. Too much of one and become overwhelming and things might not always get accomplished. If a group is disorganized then it can harm the bigger picture that the group is working on. Having lots of ideas can be a good thing, but everyone needs to present their ideas to help come up with the best one possible. So like I mentioned before, having both entropy and equlinality balanced, it will help a group perform better. Great post, I liked your example about hockey.