The general systems theory is widely used to study organisations. It offers
concepts and metaphors to study how organisations function. In tune with the
contemporary approaches in systems thinking, this article examines responses of
small management information system (MIS) service providers in the microfinance
sector. These small service providers play a pivotal role in defining the growth
strategy of the sector, in general, and many microfinance institutions, in
particular. Precisely, the study seeks answers to the following questions: What
approaches do the small (or associated) service providers in the microfinance
sector follow to run their organisations? Given the present complex environment,
where do such approaches lead them to or what are the issues they face? How do
these service providers respond to these challenges? This article is an attempt
to map responses of MIS services providers in dealing with complexities and the
ecosystem in which they operate. It proposes an evolving framework based on some
key elements drawn from systems theory. Given the huge number of micro and small
enterprises across the world, the present study expects to provide insights into
how small entrepreneurial organisations operate, the challenges they face and
the steps they adopt to address these challenges.
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