stýring

Stýring is a term used in Icelandic to denote control, steering, or management of a system, process, or organization. In technical usage it refers to the methods and mechanisms that regulate behavior to achieve a desired state.

In engineering and technology, stýring belongs to control theory and process control. A typical control system uses a sensor to measure the current state, a controller to compute a corrective action, and an actuator to implement it. Systems can be open-loop or closed-loop, with the latter using feedback to reduce error. Common strategies include PID, state feedback, and model-based control. Examples: a thermostat, cruise control, and autopilot.

In management and organizations, stýring means steering performance and direction, including strategic planning, budgeting, governance, and performance monitoring. Effective stýring requires timely information, clear decision rights, and mechanisms to adapt to changing conditions.

In transportation and robotics, stýring covers steering mechanisms and autonomous navigation that keep a vehicle on a desired path or trajectory.

Etymology: from stýra, meaning to guide or steer; cognates appear across Nordic languages reflecting a common concept of control and direction.