.SSM Rationale: "Soft Systems" Thinking
SSM As A Method For IS Requirements Analysis (and Change Analysis Generally)
SSM as an Academic Research Method
Soft Systems Methodology (SSM) was devised by Peter Checkland and elaborated in collaboration with Sue Holwell and Jim Scholes (among others) at Lancaster University in the UK. SSM provides a philosophy and a set of techniques for investigating a "real-world" problem situation.
SSM is an approach to the investigation of the problems that may or may not require computer-based system support as part of its solution. In this sense, SSM could be described as an approach to early system requirements analysis, rather than a systems design approach.
This website attempts to explain
some of the elements of SSM for teaching purposes. It is not intended as a
comprehensive source of information about SSM and may well subvert some of
Checkland's original intentions, in an attempt to make the subject accessible to students and other lifelong learners ...
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copyright © Susan Gasson, 2005-2007
The contents of this website may not be sold, incorporated in other online
materials, or used in any form without the express consent of the copyright
holder.
Permission to use will normally be given to bona fide educational use
- please contact
Susan Gasson directly.