Soft Systems Theory : Research Methods

Problems can be categorized as either ‘hard’ or ‘soft’, each with unique characteristics requiring distinctly different approaches to resolve. Hard problems are well defined where the “What” and the “How” can be determined early in the research or system design methodology. A definite solution exists and specific objectives may be defined. Hard problems constitute the essence of the systems engineering approach. In contrast, soft problems contain social and political elements that confound problem definition and resolution .

To address soft problems, Peter Checkland developed an iterative approach known as the Soft Systems Methodology (SSM) that consists of seven distinct stages:

Define and understand the problem situation (i.e. nature of the process, key stakeholders, etc.).
Express the problem situation through Rich Pictures.
Select how to view the situation from various perspectives and produce root definitions.
Build conceptual models of the system requirements to adequately address each of the root definitions.
Compare the conceptual models (step 4) to the real world expression (step 2).
Identify feasible and desirable changes to improve the situation.
Develop recommendations for taking action to improve the problem situation (implementing step 6).
The intention of SSM is to provide a framework for addressing ill-structured and poorly defined problem situations that contain significant social effects. The researcher/ developer must investigate solutions that possess aspects other than merely technical functionality.

Diagram/schematic of theory

Diagram/schematic of theory

Originating author(s)

Peter Checkland

Seminal articles

Checkland, P. Systems Thinking, Systems Practice, John Wiley & Sons, London, 1981.

Originating area

Computer Science

Level of analysis

Individual, group, network

IS articles that use the theory

Atkinson, C. J. "The Soft Information Systems and Technologies Methodology (SISTeM): an actor network contingency approach to integrated development", European Journal of Information Systems (9:2), June 2000, pp. 104-123.


from http://www.fsc.yorku.ca/york/istheory/wiki/index.php/Soft_systems_theory