what-when-how
In Depth Tutorials and Information
Table 2.1
ASystemsEngineeringApproachforDealingwithComplex
SociotechnicalSystems
Stages
Methods
• System Analysis
1. Recognition and formulation of the problem
2. Organization of the project
3. Definition of the system
4. Definition of the wider system
5. Definition of the objectives of the wider system
6. Definition of the objectives of the system
7. Definition of the overall economic criterion
8. Information and data collection
• System Design
1. Forecasting
2. Model building and simulation
3. Optimization
4. Control
• Implementation
1. Documentation and sanction approval
2. Construction
• Operation
1. Initial operation
2. Retrospective appraisal of the project
Source
:
Jenkins, 1971.
methods are used for certain and uncertain conditions in the strategy evaluation
and generation stages of systems analysis.
Another type of optimization method is
Genetic Algorithm
(GA). A genetic
algorithm is an optimization algorithm based on Darwinian evolutionary mecha-
nisms and uses a combination of random mutation and crossover and selection
procedures to breed better models or solutions from an originally random starting
population or sample (Wall, 1996).
Optimization methods are tools that are suitable for analyzing large-scale net-
works and allocation processes, but may not it all purposes. Often when social
considerations exist, the goal is not optimization but satisfaction of all stakeholder
groups involved. Also, when optimization occurs, there is no room for flexibility in
the system, making the system vulnerable to changes that happen in its environment
over time.
