Combining Soft Systems Methodology with Interpretive Structural Modeling and System Dynamics for Network Orchestration: Case Study of the Formal Science and Technology Collaborative Networks in Iran

In this chapter, internal digital divide problems in organizations are identified and discussed. A longitudinal case study focusing on the implementation of e-Government at a public organization in Sweden is used as a starting-point for the discussion. Although the general use of information and communication technology is very high in Sweden there are still problems with digital divide. Such problems could hamper the implementation process of e-Government. In the case study the older employees were especially stressed and had problems to renewing their competencies and adapting to new working situations due to the implementation of e-Government. Internal digital divide is, however, a complex phenomenon, and involves aspects of learning, motivation, professionalization, management strategies, and organizational culture. Some ways of bridging internal digital divide problems are discussed. Soft systems methodology could be used for analysis and change of internal digital divide aspects involving a discussion with the concerned communities.

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Using SSM to Approach Complex Problematical Situations in Learning, Teaching and Assessment Management

International Journal of Systems and Society ◽

10.4018/ijss.2019010101 ◽

2019 ◽

Vol 6 (1) ◽

pp. 1-16

Author(s):

Junkang Feng

Keyword(s):

Higher Education ◽

Soft Systems Methodology ◽

Chinese Higher Education ◽

Traditional Learning ◽

Systems Methodology ◽

Soft Systems ◽

Problem Situations ◽

Business College

Chinese higher education has moved into a popularized and internationalization stage, which makes the traditional learning, teaching and assessment (LTA) management challenging and sometimes problematical. This paper introduces how to approach complex problematical situations in LTA management by using Checkland's Soft Systems Methodology (SSM) at the Business College of the Beijing Union University (BCBUU) in China. Through this case study of seven years, the author made sense of and improved the problematical situations. It is found that SSM provides LTA managers with an innovative and fundamental methodology to appreciate otherwise seemingly unapproachable and unmanageable complex and ill-structured problem situations that they face. It is also proven that the case study of SSM in the context of LTA management in a Chinese college is practically effective.

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Linking Research and Teaching

International Journal of Information Technologies and Systems Approach ◽

10.4018/ijitsa.2016070102 ◽

2016 ◽

Vol 9 (2) ◽

pp. 23-38 ◽

Cited By ~ 1

Author(s):

Lynda Holland ◽

Joy Garfield

Keyword(s):

Academic Research ◽

Soft Systems Methodology ◽

Formative Feedback ◽

Pass Rate ◽

Systems Methodology ◽

Soft Systems ◽

Postgraduate Students ◽

Research And Teaching ◽

Successful Solution

This paper links research and teaching through an applied Soft Systems Methodology case study. The case study focuses on the redevelopment of a Research and Professional Skills module to provide support for international postgraduate students through the use of formative feedback with the aim of increasing academic research skills and confidence. The stages of the Soft Systems Methodology were used as a structure for the redevelopment of module content and assessment. It proved to be a valuable tool for identifying complex issues, a basis for discussion and debate from which an enhanced understanding was gained and a successful solution implemented together with a case study that could be utilised for teaching Soft Systems Methodology concepts. Changes to the module were very successful and resulted in significantly higher grades and a higher pass rate.

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