A framework for the analysis of slack in socio-technical systems

Although slack resources are key assets for the resilience of complex socio-technical systems, there is little guidance in the literature regarding how they can be analysed. This paper introduces an eleven-step framework for the analysis of slack, which: (i) allows the joint analysis of slack resources of different natures, based on a shared construct, metric, and classification scheme; (ii) allows a prioritization of variability sources, based on how effectively they are covered by slack resources; (iii) sheds light on sources of variability and slack resources that arise from self-organization; and (iv) embodies the continuous improvement principle. The steps for applying the framework require the collection and analysis of data from multiple sources of evidence. An application in the maternity ward of a hospital illustrates the use of the framework, setting an empirical basis for discussing its implications.