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Soft Systems Methodology Case Study
Preview
In this topic we continue our consideration of an approach to addressing organisational problem situations, termed Soft Systems Methodology (SSM).
Objectives
代写英国论文After completing this topic you should be able to:
• apply the various model-building techniques that are typically used in an SSM study;  and
• take a simple scenario and apply the seven stage model of SSM to generate possible recommendations for desirable, feasible change, possibly incorporating the use of Information Technology.
In this topic we look at the various techniques that are typically used in an SSM study, together with an outline description of a case study, to consolidate your understanding of SSM.
Learning Materials
Recommended Reading:
Avison D & Fitzgerald G, 2003, ‘Information Systems Development: Methodologies, Techniques and Tools’
Journals:
Journal of the ACM, ACM Transactions on Information Systems, ACM Transactions on Software Engineering and Methodology, European Journal of Information Systems, IEEE Transactions on Software Engineering, Information and Management, The Information Society, Information Technology and Management and Journal of Systems and Software
Readings:
Bob Williams (2005) ‘Soft Systems Methodology’, The Kellogg Foundation, https://users.actrix.co.nz/bobwill/ssm.pdf
SSM Modelling Techniques
We now look in detail at a number of the techniques that are applied at various stages of the seven stage model of SSM introduced in Topics 3 and 4. Specifically, we look in turn at: Rich Pictures/Analysis 1, 2 and 3; and Root Definitions/ Conceptual Modelling.
Rich Pictures/Analysis 1, 2 and 3
To complement linear prose describing an organisational problem situation, SSM advocates the use of cartoon-style pictures. These are called “Rich Pictures”. They seek to express complex human relationships, roles and interactions, perceptions, concerns, structures, resource flows and processes. These representations seek to encourage, right from the start, holistic rather than reductionist thinking about a situation. They draw attention to the many people or groups who might be seen as stakeholders in any human situation.
To inform the building of a rich picture the traditional methods of data gathering are available – interview, survey, observation, document analysis etc. Often rich pictures are constructed by various stakeholders, supported by experienced SSM analysts. A sample rich picture is shown in Figure 1, depicting matters surrounding a study of a district health authority.

Figure 1 Sample Rich Picture

Figure 4 Rich Picture for the “Furniture Manufacturers’ Problem Situation”
 
Stage 3: Root Definition of Relevant Purposeful Activity Systems
Study of the Rich Picture might lead the analyst, in discussion with stakeholders, to identify “problem themes” (areas of concern to at least one of the stakeholders). For each problem theme, the analyst should name one or more relevant systems that might be modelled. A relevant system is one that, if modelled, might give us insights into how to address an identified problem theme. A sample of the relevant systems that might be identified, grouped as primary task and issue-based (see Topic 7), include:
Primary Task:
• A system to transform trees into furniture owned by members of the general public
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