Usage of TB in Practice

This chapter compares the universal TB model with the previous TB interpretation discussed in the first half of the book. Special attention is devoted to 19 selected TB properties ranging from adaptability to universality. Furthermore, tangible results follow in form of potential implications to business administration. Namely, information and knowledge management and information technologies are considered. In the area of information management, a generic time bank information management framework is outlined. In the scope of knowledge management, the function of TB is compared with the phenomenon known as communities of practice. Finally, co-productive behavior of the TB related to open source communities are depicted in the area of information technologies.

Systemic Analysis of TB Concept

The previous chapter contains the introduction of main applied methods and approaches. This chapter provides the description of the soft system methodology and explanation of single steps needed to be applied in practice. This method is employed in a reduced PQR form. Root definitions and unstructured problem descriptions help to depict the concept of TB. Moreover, charts and diagrams enabling the provision of more accurate insight, and the identification of main inputs, entities, and processes of the system are developed. Finally, entities that belong to the wider system are delineated. In general, this chapter points out the lack of scientific background within the current research. A novel TB taxonomy as an appropriate starting point aiming at the solution of this issue is proposed. Due to the deconstruction of TB to the particular main elements and processes, the soft system methodology helps to uncover the real core of TB.

Methodological Approach to Development of the Universal TB Model

While the previous chapter can be considered as purely theoretical, this chapter focuses on the methodology. It introduces the details associated with methods, techniques, and approaches whose application led to the main output of this book. Firstly, an extensive literature review that provides background for discussion of available resources and existing knowledge background is provided. Semi-structured interviews help to acquire insights of insiders. Both methods help to identify the main issues and problems, non-existence of unifying systemic definition included. This chapter also provides details to applied statistical analysis and systems approach which represents a framework in which the whole TB analysis and synthesis are conducted. Special attention is paid to the design and construction of various types of systems and description of TB as a soft system.

TB Models

Results of the systemic analysis conducted in the previous chapter are presented here. These are introduced as a TB taxonomy comprising nine types of TB. Each TB type is described with help of graphical models, specifically diagrams and charts. Diagrams provide graphical representation, and charts are presented in a tabular form in which particular specifics are described. The final part of this chapter discusses root definitions for every single TB model. In the end, common outputs are presented. Consequently, based on all available information, theoretical background, and the analysis of current approaches, a universal TB model is proposed. Similarly to single models in the TB taxonomy, the description of main characteristics such as inputs or subsystems of this universal model is provided.

Theoretical Starting Points

Every research topic needs to be put in the context of existing theoretical background knowledge. To provide a full understanding of this book, this chapter provides brief insight into selected elementary background theories. Special attention is devoted to the concept of money, which is closely related to the critique of economic development in the 20th and the beginning of the 21st century. Rather than repeating basic economic theory, rhetoric used in the area of complementary economies from which the TB sprouts is introduced. After description of selected complementary economic systems and their relationship to TB, core values and concept of co-production, which are the rationale of any TB definitions, are uncovered. The context description should be comprehensive. Therefore, the additional insight into the issue of law and taxation, TB's societal function, and the role of information technologies is provided.