Systems Advanced Flashcards
Define a System Archetype
Well defined structure in place which shows patterns of behaviour over time
Define Cybernetics
Refers to a system designed to be self-regulating. E.g. A Thermostat for room temperature - Closed Loop
Define Requisite Variety
Control mechanism in place based on prediction of events. Greater variety = more resilient to problems
Define Engineering Metaphor
Humans are engineering the machine
Controllable
Scientific
Cause and Effect
System can be modelled and represented
Define Machine Metaphor
States interactions among people and technology are predictable and controllable through organisational charts as roles/processes.
SSM/Checkland says opposite.
What are the steps of System Engineering?
DOSAOP
Definition - define needs Objective - benefits Synthesis - alternatives Analysis - decision Optimum System - choice Plan for Action - result
Characteristics of System Engineering
Emphases objectives
Limit complexity
Remove uncertainty
Give predictable outcome
What are the steps of System Dynamics?
IDCTAI
Identify Develop understanding Build computer simulation Test the model Create alternative methods Implement solution
PQR?
What
How
Why
Define the T in CATWOE?
Result of an input transformed into a desired output
Apple - manufacturing products on the production line
Define Homeostasis?
Maintains structure in order to survive - considered to be resistant to change.
Uses both positive and negative feedback for control
Define Recursiveness
Process of repeating an activity in a similar way
Define Social Construct?
Perspective of society - segregation of people by gender, race and class
How WWW/Social Media websites are considered both designed and social
Designed to do a particular task
Social due to dynamics
Define Abstraction?
Representation of real works problems expressed in either words/pictures.
Identifies the most critical elements and creates a model based on these.
