Soft Systems Methodology

Systems Thinking methods

The Learner's Guide for the Soft Systems Methodology (SSM2) Core Module & information for the NuWave exercises

learner's Guide

Information for the NuWave exercises

Learner's guide & exercise

Soft Systems Methodology core modules - nine videos

Part 1 - Introduction

Part 2 - Introduction

Part 3 - Introduction

Part 4  - Techniques for Appreciation 

Part 5 - Techniques for Analysis: PQR, CATWOE & Root Definitions 

Part 6 - Techniques for Analysis: Conceptual Models & Performance Measurement 

Part 7 - Techniques for Assessment & Action  

Part 8 - Case Study:  NuWave Shoes  

Part 9 - Case Study:  Information Department

Main Course and Exercises

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Understanding situations using Soft Systems Methodology (SSM) introduces and consolidates SSM and is designed for those relatively new to systems thinking. It provides basic training in modelling organisational or institutional situations using SSM.You’ll develop an understanding of a methodology that offers a pluralistic methodology to your inquiry into problematic situations. The whole methodology may be deployed to gain a richer appreciation of systemically desirable and culturally feasible actions to take in the problematic situation. Alternatively, where time and resources are constrained you may choose to apply one or more of the discrete steps in the methodology (e.g. Rich Pictures, CATWOE etc.).Examples of SSM taken from authoritative case studies are provided and consideration of the ‘art’ and ‘science’ of the methodology are shared.ObjectivesBy the end of this training, you should understand:<ul><li>the grounding of Soft Systems Methodology in world of Systems Thinking</li><li>the flow of processes within an inquiry using Soft Systems Methodology</li><li>a range of techniques that can be deployed on the Appreciation, Analysis, Assessment and Action phases of an inquiry using Soft Systems Methodology</li></ul>TrainerThese courses are delivered by&nbsp;Dr Ian Cammack,&nbsp;a senior teaching fellow at the University of Lancaster who among many other qualifications has a Professional Doctorate in Systemic Practice.This material is Copyright and should not be used without discussions with the trainer.

This "one and a half day" course - Soft Systems Methodology (SSM2) Core Module - is the second of three SSM courses for learning to practice with Soft Systems Methodology.

SSM2 Soft Systems Methodology core module

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SSM2 Soft Systems Methodology core module

Steve Hales

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