Can Husserl’s phenomenology provide the intellectual framework of soft systems? (Part one)

Kybernetes ◽  
2020 ◽  
Vol ahead-of-print (ahead-of-print) ◽  
Author(s):  
Frank Stowell
Keyword(s):  
Research Programme ◽  
Soft Systems Methodology ◽  
Theory And Practice ◽  
Modern World ◽  
Systems Methodology ◽  
Soft Systems ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Intentional Consciousness ◽  
The World ◽  
The University

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to explore the relationship between Husserl’s phenomenology and soft systems. An important idea arising from the action research programme at the University of Lancaster is the notion of soft systems. The concept of soft systems, that distinguished it from other systems (holistic) thinking of the time, was the conscious link between soft systems thinking and phenomenology. Phenomenology is that the realm of intentional consciousness that enables the phenomenologist to develop a radically unprejudiced justification of his (or her) basic views of the world and of himself and explore their rational interconnections. Similarly, in soft systems, it is acknowledged that reality is formed by sensation and fashioned by experience. It is not exclusively a process of thought (although this may shape how we process our experience), for us the world exists as the result of a subjective appreciation of it. In Part 1, the author explores how phenomenology informs soft systems theory and practice through the work of Husserl and some of those that influenced him and were influenced by him. In Part 2, the author explores a possible relationship between Husserl and Gadamer as a possible intellectual grounding for organisational inquiry. Design/methodology/approach The research was conducted by examining published material relating to the development of soft systems ideas and Husserl's phenomenology. Findings An analysis of the ideas within the material suggests that phenomenology can be considered as a underpinning the notion of soft systems Research limitations/implications There is difficulty tracking down important papers that recorded the development of soft systems (i.e. 1970–1990) as Lancaster University had disposed of all issues. However, the author tracked down a source and was able to use this material as part of the research. In addition to helping research the origins of the idea, it also provides a paper trail for other researchers interested in these ideas. Practical implications Tracing the published material relating to soft systems necessitated visits to several universities as many of the important papers where no longer held by the University of Lancaster library. Social implications It seems apposite that the ideas behind soft systems are resurrected as they offer an alternative way of thinking about complexity – which the modern world seems increasingly creating Originality/value There is a lack of research into soft systems as the publications describing the Lancaster research programme have centred around soft systems methodology (SSM). Checkland remarked a decade or so ago that said SSM should be taken as given and other ideas explored. There is little evidence that the soft ideas have been explored outside variations of SSM, this paper is intended to encourage more research into ‘soft’ systems.

scholarly journals Modeling the Design Team as a Temporary Management Structure: Reality versus Theory

2012 ◽  
Vol 7 (1) ◽  
pp. 19-28
Author(s):  
Kathy Michell ◽  
Paul Bowen ◽  
Keith Cattell
Keyword(s):  
Management System ◽  
Cost Management ◽  
Soft Systems Methodology ◽  
Theory And Practice ◽  
Design Team ◽  
Systems Methodology ◽  
Soft Systems ◽  
Management Structure ◽  
Cost Management System ◽  
The Cost

The focus of the cost management literature is almost exclusively on technical issues, with scant attention to its social, political and organisational dimensions. In this paper the authors document research examining the design team as a temporary management structure, with emphasis on the efficacy of the cost management system as a vehicle for attaining client objectives with respect to time, cost and quality. Soft systems methodology is used to explore the perceptions of stakeholders to the cost management system, thus developing conceptual models of the theory and practice of cost management. Significant differences were found to exist between the perceptions of individual stakeholders concerning design team participants, participants’ roles, and the very purpose of the cost management system. Recommendations are made for structural, attitudinal and procedural changes to the cost management system in order to facilitate its effective functioning in the achievement of the client’s needs and objectives.

An innovative uncertainty management framework to support contracting for product-service availability

2014 ◽  
Vol 25 (5) ◽  
pp. 603-638 ◽  
Author(s):  
John Ahmet Erkoyuncu ◽  
Rajkumar Roy ◽  
Essam Shehab ◽  
Elmar Kutsch
Keyword(s):  
Case Studies ◽  
Cost Estimation ◽  
Soft Systems Methodology ◽  
Uncertainty Management ◽  
Project Planning ◽  
Structured Interviews ◽  
Systems Methodology ◽  
Soft Systems ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Defence Industry

Purpose – In the light of challenges experienced in cost estimation at the bidding stage of complex engineering services in the defence industry (e.g. contracting for availability), the purpose of this paper is to present a framework to manage the influence of uncertainty on cost estimates. Design/methodology/approach – The research applied the Soft Systems Methodology and benefitted from interaction with four major organisations in the defence industry through document sharing, semi-structured interviews, workshops, and case studies. Findings – The framework is composed of seven stages to plan, identify, prioritise, classify, and manage cost uncertainties. Through the validation of three case studies some of the key benefits of the framework were realised in project planning, uncertainty visualisation, and capability management. Research limitations/implications – The research has been applied in the defence sector in the UK and focuses on the bidding stage. Further research needs to be applied to confirm that the findings are applicable across industries and across the life cycle. Originality/value – The paper builds on the theory behind risk and uncertainty management and proposes an innovative framework that avoids the assumption of “perfect” knowledge by raising questions about the validity of the input data.

Stakeholder voices through rich pictures

2014 ◽  
Vol 7 (3) ◽  
pp. 342-361 ◽  
Author(s):  
Derek Walker ◽  
Paul Steinfort ◽  
Tayyab Maqsood
Keyword(s):  
Best Practice ◽  
Action Learning ◽  
Soft Systems Methodology ◽  
Research Approach ◽  
Systems Methodology ◽  
Soft Systems ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Flow Models ◽  
Programme Development ◽  
The Rich

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to illustrate, through an example taken from a recent research project, how rich pictures could be used to more effectively evaluate the delivery of projects. It has as its focus a detailed account of the process of identifying, interviewing and co-developing rich pictures with research respondents. Design/methodology/approach – The paper reports on research that undertook a soft systems methodology (SSM) combined with an action learning approach. Findings – The authors provided, one of eight rich pictures developed as part of a PhD study that used rich pictures as part of wider SSM study into understanding project management best practice. Key findings pertaining to this paper are summarised as follows: rich pictures provide a sound and holistic means to capture context, meaning and impact of situations that are often very difficult to document; use of the more use of artistic and cultural flow of colour, diagrams and symbols in the rich pictures presented a significantly improved resolution of such intangible aspects on a physical artefact such as a picture simply because colour, flow, models and symbols can act as suitable proxy to understanding and resolution; and researcher needs to have an open mind and be rigorous in questioning and interacting with interviewees. Research limitations/implications – This was based on one study only and serves to illustrate the value of an approach rather than a template to be generally used. Practical implications – This provides practical “how to” guidance on developing rich pictures within a SSM research approach. Social implications – The paper illustrates how to portray participants in a particularly sensitive case resulting from a natural disaster. This approach may help people to better express their experiences and to give them a clearer voice in telling their story. Originality/value – The major new contribution that the paper stress this paper makes is one of not only demonstrating that rich picture development is a powerful sensemaking tool but the paper also illustrates how it can be implemented and the authors demonstrated how it allows stakeholders to have a strong and influential voice in project conception and delivery. In reflecting on the use of this tool the paper suggests that it can be effectively applied or adapted for use in a range of disaster recovery situations and even wider in the resolution of purposeful programme development for all range of challenging projects.

Exploring the complexity of sugarcane supply chains via systemic approaches

Kybernetes ◽  
2017 ◽  
Vol 46 (2) ◽  
pp. 310-329 ◽  
Author(s):  
Sandra Hildbrand ◽  
Shamim Bodhanya
Keyword(s):  
Sugar Industry ◽  
Soft Systems Methodology ◽  
Systems Methodology ◽  
Soft Systems ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Sugarcane Production ◽  
Potential Improvement ◽  
Viable System ◽  
Supply Systems ◽  
Core Issues

Purpose This paper aims to explore the complexity that characterises sugarcane production and supply systems by applying soft systems methodology (SSM) and the viable system model (VSM) based on an interpretive systemic approach. It seeks to understand the extent to which these methodologies may assist in exploring such a complexity. Design/methodology/approach SSM and VSM were combined with qualitative research methods to explore two sugarcane production and supply systems’ potential improvement possibilities. Findings Trust, transparency and communication shortcomings, poor miller–grower relationships, deficient systemic commitment, insular view, milling inefficiencies, sugarcane quality, quantity and consistency shortcomings, the industry setup and the lack of a common driver are core issues. SSM and VSM facilitated a thorough understanding, yet could not address detected deficiencies. Research limitations/implications The research was restricted to two milling areas, and only SSM and VSM were applied. Practical implications Presented findings can be used as a basis to facilitate improvement in sugarcane production and supply systems and to advocate the continuity of holistic considerations. Originality/value Neither SSM nor VSM have been applied in the sugar industry context. The sugarcane production and supply systems have been holistically investigated, and soft issues have been considered.

An Introduction to Soft Systems Methodology

2021 ◽  
pp. 1-31
Keyword(s):  
Systems Thinking ◽  
Real World ◽  
Conceptual Modeling ◽  
Soft Systems Methodology ◽  
Theory And Practice ◽  
Organizational Analysis ◽  
Systems Methodology ◽  
Soft Systems ◽  
Practical Applications ◽  
Soft Systems Thinking

Soft systems methodology (SSM) is the outcome of a real-world action research program that uses the idea of systems to improve poorly defined, so-called soft problem areas. Theory and practice of SSM arouse interest and encourage discussions from various backgrounds by academics and practitioners. In order to introduce SSM for use in the real world, this chapter begins with different definitions and methodologies of systems thinking. Then, SSM defines the seven technical analysis steps, including the soft systems thinking and the necessary techniques such as rich picture, CATWOE analysis, root definition, and conceptual modeling. SSM has organizational analysis and practical applications in the industry sector that are reviewed and classified.

Future study of operations research based on scenario planning and soft systems methodology

foresight ◽  
2020 ◽  
Vol 22 (2) ◽  
pp. 223-249
Author(s):  
Mohammad Reza Fathi ◽  
Mohammad Hasan Maleki ◽  
Seyed Mohammad Sobhani ◽  
Can Deniz Koksal
Keyword(s):  
Future Study ◽  
Operations Research ◽  
Operation Research ◽  
Soft Systems Methodology ◽  
Scenario Planning ◽  
Systems Methodology ◽  
Soft Systems ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Academic Communities ◽  
Delphi Approach

Purpose The purpose of this study is to formulate exploratory scenarios of Operations Research through the critical uncertainty approach and Soft Systems Methodology. Design/methodology/approach In this study, to formulate plausible scenarios, the discipline of operation research internal and external experts’ opinions of this field have been gathered through Delphi approach and uncertainty questionnaires. After use of the most important uncertainties, plausible scenarios of operations research have been mapped with the help of experts through co-thinking workshops. Findings Four scenarios are presented in this study. These scenarios include Solar System, Esfandiar's Eye, Rival’s Setraps and Legendary Simurgh. Naturally, the imagination of such a unitary future for all academic communities is an expectation far from reality, and given the conditions of each of these futures or any integration of them is imaginable. Originality/value Operations Research models have been faced with variously multiple changes since its emergence until now. Investigation into the future of operations research on the necessity for his planning has not received a reasonable notice in the literature. Sporadic activities that have been carried out are also lacking in the necessary methodology. Also, there has been no research about future study using the soft Operation Research tools (Soft Systems Methodology).

scholarly journals Transforming Higher Education Culture: Teacher Education in Kosovo

2019 ◽  
Vol 29 (3) ◽  
pp. 256-274
Author(s):  
Jenny Gilbert ◽  
Simon Pratt-Adams
Keyword(s):  
Teacher Education ◽  
Cultural Change ◽  
Teacher Educators ◽  
Soft Systems Methodology ◽  
School Curriculum ◽  
Systems Methodology ◽  
Soft Systems ◽  
Faculty Of Education ◽  
Education Culture ◽  
The University

Demand for a radical overhaul of teacher education in Kosovo led one Faculty of Education to modernize and improve the university-based preparation of teachers, and so deliver a new competence-based school curriculum. Moving to this learner-centered model of education required transformation in the culture of teacher educators. In order to evaluate the efforts to effect this cultural change, we adopted an unusual action research method, Soft Systems Methodology that recognizes the varying aims and perceptions of stakeholders. These data were holistically captured with the use of metaphors addressing what needs to be done and how things have happened.

scholarly journals Severe asthma: emergency care patient driven solutions

2017 ◽  
Vol 30 (7) ◽  
pp. 628-637 ◽  
Author(s):  
Karen Newell ◽  
Chris Corrigan ◽  
Geoffrey Punshon ◽  
Alison Leary
Keyword(s):  
Severe Asthma ◽  
Systems Thinking ◽  
Design Methodology ◽  
Asthma Patient ◽  
Soft Systems Methodology ◽  
Care Patient ◽  
Systems Methodology ◽  
Soft Systems ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Practical Implications

Purpose Patients with severe asthma were choosing not to use the emergency department (ED) in extremis and were self-medicating when experiencing severe asthma, putting their lives at risk. This local issue reflected a nationwide situation. The purpose of this paper is to better understand the reasons behind patients’ reluctance to attend ED and to consider practical solutions in a structured way. Design/methodology/approach Systems thinking (soft systems methodology) was used to examine the issues resulting in this reluctance to attend the ED. Once this tame (well-defined) problem was revealed, a potential solution was developed in co-production with patients. Findings Patients feared attending the ED and felt vulnerable while in the ED for several reasons. This appeared to be a well-defined and solvable problem. The solution proposed was an asthma patient passport (APP), which increased patient’s confidence in their ability to communicate their needs while in severe distress. The APP decreases (from 12 to 5 steps) the work patients had to do to achieve care. The APP project is currently being evaluated. Practical implications The APP should be offered to all people with severe asthma. Originality/value By revisiting systems thinking and identifying problems, a solution was identified. Although methods such as soft systems methodology have limitations when used in wicked (difficult or impossible to resolve) problems, such methods still have merit in tame problems and were applicable in this case to fully understand the issues, and to design practical solutions.

scholarly journals Analysing information security in a bank using soft systems methodology

2017 ◽  
Vol 25 (3) ◽  
pp. 240-258 ◽  
Author(s):  
Temesgen Kitaw Damenu ◽  
Chris Beaumont
Keyword(s):  
Information Security ◽  
Developing Economies ◽  
Weak Link ◽  
Single Case ◽  
Soft Systems Methodology ◽  
Systems Methodology ◽  
Soft Systems ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Security Issues

Purpose This paper aims to explore the use of soft systems methodology (SSM) to analyse the socio-technical information security issues in a major bank. Design/methodology/approach Case study research was conducted on a major bank. Semi-structured interviews with a purposive sample of key stakeholders in the business, comprising senior managers, security professionals and branch employees were conducted. Findings SSM was particularly useful for exploring the holistic information security issues, enabling models to be constructed which were valuable analytical tools and easily understood by stakeholders, which increased the receptiveness of the bank, and assisted with member validation. Significant risks were apparent from internal sources with weaknesses in aspects of governance and security culture. Research limitations/implications This research uses a single case study and whilst it cannot be generalised, it identifies potential security issues others may face and solutions they may apply. Practical implications Information security is complex and addresses technical, governance, management and cultural risks. Banking attacks are changing, with greater focus on employees and customers. A systemic approach is required for full consideration. SSM is a suitable approach for such analysis within large organisations. Originality/value This study demonstrates how important benefits can be obtained by using SSM alongside traditional risk assessment approaches to identify holistic security issues. A holistic approach is particularly important given the increasing complexity of the security threat surface. Banking was selected as a case study because it is both critical to society and is a prime target for attack. Furthermore, developing economies are under-represented in information security research, this paper adds to the evidence base. As global finance is highly interconnected, it is important that banks in such economies do not comprise a weak link, and hence, results from this case have value for the industry as a whole.

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