| 1. |
- Bergvall-Kåreborn, Birgitta, et al.
(author)
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Basic principles of SSM modeling : an examination of CATWOE from a soft perspective
- 2004
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In: Systemic Practice and Action Research. - 1094-429X .- 1573-9295. ; 17:2, s. 55-73
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- This paper examines the SSM technique CATWOE, which focuses on defining necessary elements that together constitute a human activity system from a certain perspective. Despite its recognition within the literature and its numerous uses, there are few studies on how the technique can be improved. This research reflects on each of the elements both from a theoretical and a practical perspective. Findings point to the fact that some of the terms have a meaning in everyday language that differs from its definition within CATWOE. Other concepts are not well-defined. This is unfortunate and may both lead to misunderstandings and limit analysis. The paper points to a number of ways in which the use of CATWOE can be developed in order to further support the process of eliciting novel ideas for future actions. Hence, the overall conclusion is that the elements need to be rethought and some of them renamed.
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| 2. |
- Bergvall-Kåreborn, Birgitta
(author)
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Enriching the model-building phase of soft systems methodology
- 2002
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In: Systems research and behavioral science. - : Wiley. - 1092-7026 .- 1099-1743. ; 19:1, s. 27-48
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- Soft Systems Methodology (SSM) has been criticized for its tendency to result in regulatory, rather than radical, agendas for change. It has also been argued that when stressing the difference between different Weltanschauungs SSM takes them at face value and does not investigate the similarities between them or seek an explanation for this in terms of the structure of society. The aim of the paper is to address these critical comments made towards SSM by incorporating a concept called qualifying function as a conceptual tool for modelling and design. The concept has the potential to help people in a particular problem situation to view the situation from new and different perspectives. It also has the potential to enrich the conceptual models by directing the transformation process. Finally, it provides an alternative technique for model validation by relating the root definition and the conceptual model closer together.
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| 3. |
- Bergvall-Kåreborn, Birgitta
(author)
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Qualifying function in SSM modeling : a case study
- 2002
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In: Systemic Practice and Action Research. - 1094-429X .- 1573-9295. ; 15:4, s. 309-330
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- In a previous paper the author introduced a concept called qualifying function as a conceptual tool for modeling and design. The concept was incorporated into the modeling phase of soft systems methodology (SSM), with the purpose of addressing some of the criticism directed toward the methodology, such as its tendency to result in regulatory, rather than radical, agendas for change. It was argued that the concept had the potential to help people in a particular problem situation to view the situation from new and different perspectives and that it could enrich the conceptual models by giving the transformation process a direction. The aim of this paper is to apply the concept, embedded in SSM, to a case study involving two projects, focused on creating new work opportunities, to explore the practical applicability and usefulness of the concept, both in general and as a part of the modeling phase of SSM
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| 4. |
- Bergvall-Kåreborn, Birgitta
(author)
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The role of the qualifying function concept in systems design
- 2001
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In: Systemic Practice and Action Research. - 1094-429X .- 1573-9295. ; 14:1, s. 79-93
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Journal article (peer-reviewed)abstract
- In this paper I explore potential benefits with using the concept qualifying function as a tool for systems design. The concept originates from the philosophy of Herman Dooyeweerd and refers to the function or character that guides and directs the internal structure of an entity or activity. This means that if the qualifying function for an entity or activity changes, its structure as a whole will change as well. Due to this, the concept and its related theory can help people to view situations from new and different perspectives and to explore the consequences of different views. It can provide a common base for the design around which accommodation more easily can be reached and from where further discussions can be continued. Finally, it has the potential to point at fundamental differences of opinion between participants and stakeholders.
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