The mechanistic approach that is outdated for enterprise modeling

Looking back in history, the period from 1945-71, also known as the Golden Age of Capitalism [i], saw an unprecedented boom in business activity. The only major problem that businesses appeared to have in this period was how to produce more, to satisfy the ever-increasing demand for their products and services. Most enterprises had limited product and service offerings and custom-made offerings were an exception. Companies during this period were production- or inward-focused. Competition was not very intense and the business environment was largely stable and predictable, compared to today.

The focus of companies was largely on standardization and maximizing efficiency. Processes and tools were, by far, more important than people. People were mandated to adhere to processes and comply with "orders" from "bosses." Innovation and creativity were limited to research and development departments, if considered at all.

In this period...