Identifies limits of the system. Definition of boundary relates directly to system’s purpose. Inside boundary are elements/components that make up system and are within system’s control. Outside boundary is environment and the elements/components that are outside of the system’s control. Elements/components both inside and outside boundary can be used as system Continue Reading
Learning
Learning and development resources and notes.
Control
When the system is able to control itself. May use feedback received to match against goals and objectives. If any discrepancies detected, system takes corrective action by changing outputs which, as a result, change the inputs. This occurs on a continuous basis depending on the feedback. Control is over-arching term Continue Reading
Feedback
Feedback is an important Systems Thinking concept, it allows systems to keep a balance, or equilibrium. A system produces output in the environment which have an affect on the environment. This effects are reported back to the system by inputs. This feedback mechanism allows the system to manage itself so Continue Reading
Input & Output
Open system takes inputs from environment and produces outputs to same environment. Example: manufacturing organisation takes inputs such as human resources, physical resources, capital and technology. Output would be such as a product.
Goals/Objectives
System has a purpose – to achieve this, system will have goals and objectives. Goals and objectives are specific & achievable outcomes against which the system can be measured. Examples include sales figures, market share and profit margins.
Systems Concepts introduction
This Systems Concepts unit introduces further concepts supporting identification and creation of systems and definition of their purpose as well as an introduction to complex systems. Concepts, terms and components are properties of all systems: Goals/Objectives Input/Ouput Feedback Control Boundary Environment Sub System Hierarchy Emergence Dynamic Equilibrium Perspective/Stakeholders Transformation If Continue Reading
Natural systems example
Exists in nature, independent of human modification. Consists of physical and biological materials and intertwined processes. E.g. growth of plants, weather system and fertility of soil. Agriculture example of human organisational system introduced to existing natural system to control and modify it. It is affected by natural systems such as Continue Reading
Organisational systems example
Organisations have management structure determining relationships between activities performed and employees performing them. Organisations considering open systems – they affect and are affected by their environment. Many organisations were considered closed systems as they organised and operated within with no regard for their environment. Managers would analyse each department in Continue Reading
Environment and Ecology systems example
Humankind has learned to live in many environments based on successful adaptation. Interaction of humans with environment (surroundings) results in major changes both good and bad. Bad changes often from making too big a change in environment. e.g. first settlers in Americas caused 50 million deaths by disease resulting in Continue Reading
Engineered and Physical systems example
Engineered system – man-made system to fulfil specific purpose. A combination of components working together to collectively perform useful function. E.g. new manufacturing process, technology to improve delivery of a service, an infrastructure system.