3.1.3. The Holistic Approach
💡 First Principle: "Holistic" means the four dimensions must be balanced together, because they interact — a change in one ripples into the others — and optimizing one in isolation usually degrades the whole.
The holistic approach means considering all four dimensions in relation to each other for any product or service. They're interdependent: new technology (information and technology) changes the skills people need (organizations and people), may introduce new suppliers (partners and suppliers), and reshapes how work flows (value streams and processes). Treat them separately and you'll optimize one while quietly breaking another.
⚠️ Exam Trap: The holistic approach is the reason the dimensions are taught as a set. An option suggesting you can address dimensions independently, or in priority order, contradicts the holistic principle.
Reflection Question: Why does introducing a powerful new tool sometimes reduce value if the organization treats it as purely a technology change?
