feedback systems
Self-correcting mechanisms
Feedback systems are arrangements where outputs loop back to influence inputs, creating self-regulating cycles.
A thermostat is a classic example: temperature readings trigger heating or cooling to maintain a target.
Negative feedback stabilizes systems toward equilibrium; positive feedback amplifies changes, sometimes dangerously.
The concept applies across engineering, biology, economics, and organizational management: The body's feedback systems maintain constant blood sugar levels.
- closed loopSystem with continuous feedback
- cyberneticsCommunication and control science
- negative feedbackResponse indicating problems
- positive feedbackResponse amplifying original signal
- vicious cycleSelf-perpetuating harmful pattern
cause and effect · homeostasis · checks and balances · error correction · course correction · Norbert Wiener · servomechanism · steady state · circadian rhythms · ecological balance · supply and demand · actuator · thermoregulation · fight or flight · sensor · economic cycles · reinforcement learning · behavioral conditioning
- organizational developmentchange management, strategic planning, talent development, succession planning, team building
- edtecheducational software, online classes, Moodle, STEM, learning platforms
- trust signalscredentials, trustworthiness, reputation, credibility, reliability
- workplace voiceemployee input, employee feedback, suggestion box, suggestion boxes, employee involvement
- fluid powerhydraulic ram, hydraulic pumps, hydraulic fluid, hydraulic oil, cylinders
- Open Dataopen data, data access, open government, data sharing, FOIA