Working Up

by Dwayne Phillips

Systems analysis is merely a few basic skills in what a person notices.

From time to time I analyze systems. I analyze all types of systems, and most of those systems are usually not recognized as systems. I suppose I have a broad idea of what comprises a system.

A fundamental skill I find in systems analysis is the ability to zoom in and back out as I notice the system.

(1) Zooming in examines the details of the system.

(2) Backing out considers the greater context of the system.

In considering (2), I wonder if the system fits in its universe. Will it play the role it is hoped to play?

In examining (1), I scrutinize if the parts of the system will sum to a system that works.

Zooming in and backing out aren’t difficult—at least they don’t seem difficult to me. They must be difficult because persons who can analyze systems seem to be rare.