Soft systems analysis
A Barnden
6 points
* 2 hours per week
* First, second semester
* Caulfield
* Prohibitions: SYS4071, SYS5140
Objectives At the completion of this subject students should know the distinctions between `hard' and `soft' systems; understand that social as well as technical factors are involved in problem situations; that not all business problems have a uniform interpretation nor a uniformly agreed solution; be able to identify such situations and to apply the techniques of soft systems methodology (SSM) to their resolution; and appreciate the subjective interpretations of business problem situations by those involved.
Synopsis This subject will extend the student's knowledge of systems analysis as a problem solving discipline specifically in the area of ill-defined or `soft' problem situations. Uncertainty will be discussed in an information systems requirements analysis context. Differing perceptions of models and of their usefulness in problematical situations will lead to an examination of SSM. The techniques used in SSM-based analysis will be taught and applied to cases, ideally provided by the students, in industry and government.
Assessment Practical work: 40%
* Written (3000 words): 60%
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