Soft systems methodology

Question 1

soft systems methodology definition

Answer 1

Is an organised way of thinking that’s applicable to problematic social situations and in the management of change by using action.

Question 2

soft systems methodology

Answer 2

– To model business processes
– For business analysis
– To carry out feasibility studies
– To gather requirements
– To model the scope of a new software system
– For general problem solving/analysis of any
complex situation

Question 3

7 soft systems methodology

Answer 3

1. Understand the ‘problem’ situation
2. Create a Rich Picture to express the situation
3. Formulate a Root Definition (‘CATWOE’) to define
   the system
4. Develop a Conceptual Model of the system
5. Compare Concept (step 4) and Reality (step 2)
6. Define and discuss Changes
7. Implement Changes to improve ’problem’ situation

Question 4

soft system methodology techniques

Answer 4

CATWOE-
Customer
Actors
Transformation processes
World view
Owner
Environment

Question 5

CATWOE

Answer 5

Customers: who the system serves or benefits
Actors: who carry out the activities
Transformation processes: what it does;
what inputs are converted to outputs
World view: perception of what matters in the world,
the ‘bigger picture’
Owner: who has the power to change or create the
system
Environment: industry, market in which the system
operates

Question 6

Outcome of SSM analysis

Answer 6

• Facilitates understanding of problem
  situation in any organisational context
  so in the end:
  – Problem might simply disappear, or:
  – A non-technical solution might be found,
  eg., new roles, new strategies, more
  training, better communication or
  – ‘soft’ problem becomes ‘hard’ so a
  technical solution can be found