In the open-systems model of change, which process serves as the middle step used by leadership to transform strategy, structure, systems, and culture into an output?

• A. Throughput
• B. Input
• C. Output
• D. Feedback

Answer: (A)

Throughput is the transformation phase where leadership turns inputs into results. In this open-systems view, inputs are the strategic elements brought into the change effort—strategy, structure, systems, and culture. Throughput covers the actions and processes that reorganize and apply those elements: redesigning workflows, rolling out new policies, training people, aligning technology, and communicating changes. This is where intent begins to be enacted and integrated into daily operations, converting plans into measurable results. The output is the realized change in performance or capability, while feedback provides information to adjust the throughput activities for ongoing improvement.