Introduction to Systems Concepts and Systems Approach
Systems Concepts and Definitions
System: A set of elements that interact to reach a goal. It can also be defined as a set of two or more interrelated components working to achieve a common goal.
Life in society is organized around complex systems. Humans try to provide some semblance of order to their universe through these systems. Life is organized around institutions of all kinds, some structured by humans, while others have evolved over time.
1.1.1 General Systems Theory
General systems theory encompasses theories that describe the structure and behavior of systems. It provides a comprehensive look at specific types of systems, ranging from technical to conceptual systems, by increasing their level of generality and abstraction.
The general systems theory can be described as:
- A conventional mathematical theory
- A metalanguage
- A way of thinking
- A hierarchy of increasingly general systems within a system.
The general systems theory aims to:
- Encourage the development of a general terminology for describing the features, functions, and performance of systems.
- Develop a set of laws that apply to all behaviors in systems.
- Promote the formalization of these laws.
Nominal Definitions for General Systems Theory
When we speak of systems, we consider the totality of properties attributable to the implementation of a system or its interacting components within their environment.
Example:
Systems: Programming Language
Components:
– Instructions
– Compile
– Executable
In general systems theory, all closely related elements are considered. These elements maintain the system, directly or indirectly linked with varying degrees of stability, and their behavior is deemed appropriate for a given issue.
Based on these considerations, the general theory of systems leads to two major research strategies:
- System-Element Focus: This strategy emphasizes the relationship between the system and its elements.
- Boundary Process Focus: This strategy concentrates on the processes occurring at the boundary between the system and its environment (system/environment).
Basic Classification of General Systems
General systems theory grapples with defining the reality of its objects and developing suitable analytical tools for linearly treating systematic behavior. Within this framework, systems can be classified as follows:
- Effectiveness: Systems can be real, ideal, or models. Real systems exist independently of the observer, while ideal systems are symbolic constructs based on logic and mathematics. Models are abstractions of reality that combine characteristics of real and conceptual objects.
- Source: Systems can be natural or artificial. This distinction highlights whether a system’s structure is influenced by other systems.
- Environment/Isolation: Systems can be closed or open, depending on their interaction with their environment.
Elements of a System
The elements of a system include:
- Basic System Definition: A group of interdependent elements that interact regularly within a system.
- Examples: Gravitational systems, thermodynamic systems, river systems, telephone systems, highway systems, touch typing, taxonomic systems, and decimal systems are examples of systems that can work within a computer system.
- Player: Layers within a system that give rise to other similar systems. For example, in a business organization, a facilities planning software division might be built to serve new regions or companies.
- Boundary: The barrier that encloses the system’s components, protecting it from the environment and controlling the flow of matter and information.
- Injector: Carries material from the environment through the system’s boundary. This could be an organization or any other entity.
- Distributor: Distributes material from outside the system and its subsystems to each component.
- Converter: Transforms materials entering the system into forms more useful for specific processes within the system.
- Producer: Forms stable partnerships for significant periods. Working with the converter, these partnerships use materials for repairing or replacing system components.
1.2 System Approach
The systems approach combines philosophy and methodology for planning and design. It leverages interdisciplinary methodologies, integrating various techniques and skills, primarily for planning and designing complex systems that perform specific functions.
Characteristics of the Systems Approach
Key characteristics of the systems approach include:
- Interdisciplinary: It combines qualitative and quantitative approaches, focusing on creative, pragmatic, theoretical, and empirical methods. Defining, examining, and redefining system objectives throughout the design process is crucial.
- Unity and Scope: The systems approach allows for the comprehensive analysis and development of organizations and institutions. It enables a holistic understanding of an enterprise’s operation to facilitate improvement.