Global ETD Search

81	Advancing an Academic Library's services through application of Soft Systems Methodology Chatzipanagiotou, Niki January 2014 (has links) The Master thesis focuses on the application of Information Systems in the field of Library and Information Science. Within the context of organizational learning, a collaborative user-centered approach is used to produce desired system characteristics and future research suggestions. More specifically, this research study explores the library users’ and academic librarians’ perceptions of the current library discovery and access services as mediated through the Online Public Access Catalogue (OPAC) of the Academic Library of the School of Philosophy at Athens University in Greece. Additionally, it explores their desired characteristics for the ‘public facing’ Integrated Library System (ILS), of which the OPAC constitutes a module, in order to generate recommendations that guide the Academic Library staff members’ collaborative design of a more user-centered library information system. The study is built upon the systems thinking framework of Checkland’s Soft Systems Methodology (SSM). Applied theories and design processes guide research processes aimed at advancing both inclusive social learning and system improvements. Academic Libraries Greek Academic Libraries Economic crisis Greece Library User Services Library Systems Online Public Access Catalogue (OPAC) User-centered Design Soft Systems Methodology (SSM) Computer and Information Sciences Data- och informationsvetenskap
82	Sustainable Construction in the Transportation Infrastructure Industry– as a vision and in practice Wallberg, Stefan, Lofgren, Karin January 2012 (has links) This study has been conducted on behalf of Vectura Consulting AB with the purpose to examine how different actors perceive the dimensions of sustainability and sustainable construction. The purpose is also to provide an understanding of existing barriers and opportunities for sustainable construction within the industry and exemplify with different directions for the actors in order to develop sustainability. The study has approach the research problem by using systems theory, developed by Checkland, to identify the relevant system. Other systems theories has been used as an theoretical framework in order to identify barriers and opportunities, which in this study are based on Hughes’s theory about reverse salients and salients. Interviews with a selection of different actors in the industry and prior research have in this study served as empirics and the perspective of the systems theory defines the necessary tools to be used. The study shows that no consistency prevails regarding the definition of sustainability among the actors. Although, the environmental aspect of sustainability is prioritized by a majority of the actors oppose to social and economic aspects. Furthermore, for some of the actors economy is governing while for others it is decisive. Sustainable construction is characterized by a long-term parallel process with incentives such as branding, recruiting, and optimized operations. Moreover, the study indicates a willingness among the actors to define the concept of sustainability in order to achieve an industry wide definition. Such a definition would be of benefit for simplifying procurement and developing sustainable construction. The study identified two barriers and two opportunities. The actors agrees on that the procurement regulations of the Swedish infrastructure authority “Trafikverket” in combination with contracts defined by multiple products, and the objectives of Trafikverket, are the two main barriers for holding back the development of sustainability in the industry. However, Trafikverket’s goal to increase the number of contracts based on function is seen as an opportunity as it enables creativity and innovation and a possible side effect of sustainable development. In addition, side bids from different actors are considered as a driver that will accelerate Trafikverket’s work regarding sustainability and especially sustainable construction. Finally, the authors give examples of directions for the industry to enhance sustainable construction and by doing so the authors connect vision with practice. Engineering and Technology Teknik och teknologier
83	Synergizing Systems : Using SSM in prototypical system development Zafar, Ali, Svensson, Oscar January 2020 (has links) This thesis is concerned with a research project conducted with a Swedish company to provide recommendations for developing a prototypical information system for the company. The system’s goal was to consolidate data regarding the company’s supply chain and packaging conditions in order to find improvements in packaging development. The thesis employed the use of Soft Systems Methodology to aid with the system development process. A qualitative explorative study was designed for this purpose. Soft Systems Methodology was used after exploring alternative methodologies. This was chosen as the researchers found it important to engage the case company in the system development process. Four semi-structured interviews and two workshops with the relevant officials were the main methods of collecting data. Models such as a rich picture, CATWOE and PQR formula were utilized during the research to visualize important aspects of the system development process. As a result of the research, the researchers were able to provide the company with recommendations for how to further proceed with the development process. Another result of the study was that Soft Systems Methodology was able to unlock tacit information. The methodology also allowed for a consideration of the implementation of an iterative process to support the development. The results of this research suggest that introducing and making use of Soft Systems Methodology is very stimulating in an environment not already using it. The research provided insights needed for progress towards a successful implementation of a new information system, and contributes a real-world SSM case in a corporate environment. The researchers also suggest future opportunities for research that could further build on the work presented in the thesis. System Development Soft Systems Methodology SSM Note-Based Analysis Qualitative Studies Requirements Engineering User Involvement Collaborative Development Interpretive Research Packaging Development SSM Workshops Semi-Structured Interviews Övrig annan teknik
84	Approaches to energy efficient building development : studying under Chinese contexts Gu, Zhenhong January 2007 (has links) This thesis presents a general description of approaches to energy efficient building development under Chinese contexts. The purpose of the work is to discuss how Chinese building development can be approved from an energy saving perspective. Building development is a complicated process that relates to many stakeholders’ interests. The developed countries have studied in this field extensively for several decades. Generally, the approaches to energy saving can be set at three levels: administration, construction industry and architectural design. More new strict codes for energy efficient buildings are being issued for enforcement. At the same time, many research institutes have developed Building Environmental Assessment (BEA) methods, where energy efficiency is an important factor in the models. Various technical solutions for energy efficiency are developed as well. The administrative approaches are not the main objective discussed in the thesis, though the importance of them is undeniable. BEA systems are not only assessment methods, but also market-based stimulating approaches for sustainability of construction market. Technical methods have been developed for a long period. Passive House and Low Exergy (LowEx) Systems are two representative examples in European countries. All of these approaches are relatively unfamiliar to Chinese architects and developers, let alone their effect and applicability. The thesis tries to analyse this situation and their applicability within Chinese context. In China to a certain project, the importance of technical issues is relatively recognized. However, a few successful individual cases in technique can not change the reality that most of new building development has failed in energy efficiency in China. This is a serious situation when China is in an enormous expansion phase in building new houses. The thesis tries to discuss the reasons for this phenomenon. One reason could be that the stakeholders in the developing process are not aware of the importance of collaboration which is the only method to get “Both Win” according to Game theory. The thesis discusses a paradigm to replace two traditional linear paradigms in building developing process. Architects should act as coordinators of different stakeholders rather than technical supporters. The thesis tries to discuss the propositional route of developing energy efficient buildings. Technical approaches are basic research, which presents the concepts that have been proved realizable; BEA encourages developers to develop more energy efficient buildings for economic benefit, which will make good demonstrations for whole market; national laws and policies are final approaches, which ensure that every project will have good performance of energy efficiency. When the old standardization and legislation are finished, a new cycle will begin with more advanced techniques. China government has started the progress to enhance energy efficiency. However, this process will be tough and slow. The thesis discusses Chinese special conditions and the problems that cry out for solution in the future. / QC 20101105 Energy efficiency China Passive House Low Exergy system Built Environmental Assessment LCA Swedish housing Hammarby Sjöstad Eco-village Game theory System theory Soft Systems Methodology Other Environmental Engineering Annan naturresursteknik
85	A Comparison Of Western And Eastern Soft Systems Approaches Anaya, John L, Anaya, John L, Anaya, John L 01 March 2024 (has links) (PDF) Soft System Approaches have been developed worldwide to help problem-solvers and decision-makers develop solutions to complex problems, such as aerospace systems. Soft System Approaches were designed to help lower the disorder of developing a complex system by increasing understanding of a situation. Four Soft System Approaches were investigated, two from the West and two from the East. Within the context of the paper, the West refers to thought patterns associated with thinkers and scientists in Europe and North America, and the East refers to those from and around China. The two from the West are Peter Checkland’s Soft Systems Methodology and Fran Ackerman and Colin Eden’s Strategic Options Development and Analysis, and from the East they are Qian Xuesen’s Meta-Synthetic Approach and Jifa Gu and Zhichang Zhu’s Wuli-Shili-Renli Approach. The four approaches were selected due to their prevalence and notoriety within the Soft System Approach research. The Western Soft System Approaches were created as a direct response to reductionism and are more holistic than Hard System Approaches; however, they are classified as systematic due to their structure. The approaches are tools that can be deployed for a specific task. Eastern Soft System Approaches rooted in Eastern philosophy went from holism to reductionism to a unity of the two. There is no one-size-fits-all approach; therefore, approaches that seek to balance reductionism and holism and give guidance and structure while inviting in other methods. The Eastern approaches are classified as framework Soft System Approaches, which provide structure and guidance but not a formula. Systematic approaches are better for determining a course of action, while framework approaches are better for guiding a whole program. The Eastern approaches covered can and do incorporate other methods, including each other. Depending on the problem and problem solver, the systematic or framework approach may be better suited. Overall, however, the framework approach will be able to solve the most varied problems due to the lack of prescriptiveness and the use of other approaches. Knowing the difference between the approaches and how they can be used helps manage the development of complex aerospace systems. Holism Soft System Approach Soft Systems Methodology Meta-Synthetic Approach Wuli-Shili-Renli Engineering Education Other Aerospace Engineering Other Engineering Outdoor Education
86	Unie studentů VŠE ze systémového pohledu / System approach to the Students' Union of the University of Economics in Prague Kočí, Jakub January 2014 (has links) The aim of this diploma thesis is the preparation and foundation of the Students' Union of the University of Economics in Prague, which is done by Soft systems methodology. In order to achieve this aim, the thesis elaborates a theory of student organizations and student unions in the Czech Republic. It also compares a set of rules governing student organizations at chosen Czech universities with chosen foreign universities. The result of this comparison is that chosen foreign universities have more systematic policies towards their student organizations. The research part of this thesis contains Analysis two (social) and Analysis three (political) from the Soft systems methodology. The results of the research contains defined set of roles, norms, values and a distribution of power in the environment of student organizations at University of Economics. Practical part of the thesis brings two complete learning cycles of the Soft systems methodology including root definitions, CATWOE and models of purposeful activity. Based on these two learning cycles, the thesis defines the general limits of Soft system methodology for the foundation of student union at Czech universities.
87	Multimediální komunikace / Multimedia communication Vondra, Zdeněk January 2015 (has links) Multimedia is a form of communication and sharing knowledge using synergic effect of parallel connected communication channels. Its main use is in producing communications products and services and in design of user interfaces. Main objective of this dissertation is to develop and create a model of multimedia communication for better understanding of the meaning and the purpose of using multimedia forms in communication process. The model will describe a system of elements and parameters of multimedia communication within the internal and external context. Another objective of this dissertation is to develop multimedia communication methodology that will be used for the design, development and evaluations of concepts of multimedia communication. The methodology will be created by applying the model of multimedia communication into the procedure structure. In theoretical way this dissertation is based on analysis of different definitions and approaches to the multimedia communications topic. This is followed by an analysis of communication theories, concepts of media, multimedia, delivery channels, and communication functions. The theoretical part is followed by the outcomes of the research in practice of four different fields of multimedia use. The knowledge gained is analyzed in the following parts in purpose of creating the model of multimedia communication and the methodology which is derived from the model. The methodology is further validated through case studies and the recommendations for further development are formulated. The model and the methodology of multimedia communication created in this dissertation present complex view on multimedia communication topic that is considered as a useful tool for meeting a specific communication purpose. Dissertation provides mechanics for use and study of multimedia communication and also defines the opportunities for further development of the methodology.
88	An investigation into the integration of qualitative and quantitative techniques for addressing systemic complexity in the context of organisational strategic decision-making McLucas, Alan Charles, Civil Engineering, Australian Defence Force Academy, UNSW January 2001 (has links) System dynamics modelling has been used for around 40 years to address complex, systemic, dynamic problems, those often described as wicked. But, system dynamics modelling is not an exact science and arguments about the most suitable techniques to use in which circumstances, continues. The nature of these wicked problems is investigated through a series of case studies where poor situational awareness among stakeholders was identified. This was found to be an underlying cause for management failure, suggesting need for better ways of recognising and managing wicked problem situations. Human cognition is considered both as a limitation and enabler to decision-making in wicked problem environments. Naturalistic and deliberate decision-making are reviewed. The thesis identifies the need for integration of qualitative and quantitative techniques. Case study results and a review of the literature led to identification of a set of principles of method to be applied in an integrated framework, the aim being to develop an improved way of addressing wicked problems. These principles were applied to a series of cases in an action research setting. However, organisational and political barriers were encountered. This limited the exploitation and investigation of cases to varying degrees. In response to a need identified in the literature review and the case studies, a tool is designed to facilitate analysis of multi-factorial, non-linear causality. This unique tool and its use to assist in problem conceptualisation, and as an aid to testing alternate strategies, are demonstrated. Further investigation is needed in relation to the veracity of combining causal influences using this tool and system dynamics, broadly. System dynamics modelling was found to have utility needed to support analysis of wicked problems. However, failure in a particular modelling project occurred when it was found necessary to rely on human judgement in estimating values to be input into the models. This was found to be problematic and unacceptably risky for sponsors of the modelling effort. Finally, this work has also identified that further study is required into: the use of human judgement in decision-making and the validity of system dynamics models that rely on the quantification of human judgement. accidents adaptive toolbox Black Hawk business process re-engineering bounded rationality BPR CATWOE causality causal loop diagram cognition complexity complex strategic problems cognitive mapping combat training centre concept mapping decision-making decision support systems defence preparedness double loop learning dynamic behaviour dynamic complexity feedback feedback loop feedback structure helicopter crash heuristic influence diagram IISD learning Katie Bender knowledge managerial cognition defence materiel naturalistic decision making project management qualitative modelling quantitative modelling recognition-primed decision making risk risk management root definition Royal Canberra Hospital situation awareness soft systems methodology strategy strategy development system dynamics front-end tool system dynamics modelling systems theory systems thinking systemic problems wicked problems
89	An investigation into the integration of qualitative and quantitative techniques for addressing systemic complexity in the context of organisational strategic decision-making McLucas, Alan Charles, Civil Engineering, Australian Defence Force Academy, UNSW January 2001 (has links) System dynamics modelling has been used for around 40 years to address complex, systemic, dynamic problems, those often described as wicked. But, system dynamics modelling is not an exact science and arguments about the most suitable techniques to use in which circumstances, continues. The nature of these wicked problems is investigated through a series of case studies where poor situational awareness among stakeholders was identified. This was found to be an underlying cause for management failure, suggesting need for better ways of recognising and managing wicked problem situations. Human cognition is considered both as a limitation and enabler to decision-making in wicked problem environments. Naturalistic and deliberate decision-making are reviewed. The thesis identifies the need for integration of qualitative and quantitative techniques. Case study results and a review of the literature led to identification of a set of principles of method to be applied in an integrated framework, the aim being to develop an improved way of addressing wicked problems. These principles were applied to a series of cases in an action research setting. However, organisational and political barriers were encountered. This limited the exploitation and investigation of cases to varying degrees. In response to a need identified in the literature review and the case studies, a tool is designed to facilitate analysis of multi-factorial, non-linear causality. This unique tool and its use to assist in problem conceptualisation, and as an aid to testing alternate strategies, are demonstrated. Further investigation is needed in relation to the veracity of combining causal influences using this tool and system dynamics, broadly. System dynamics modelling was found to have utility needed to support analysis of wicked problems. However, failure in a particular modelling project occurred when it was found necessary to rely on human judgement in estimating values to be input into the models. This was found to be problematic and unacceptably risky for sponsors of the modelling effort. Finally, this work has also identified that further study is required into: the use of human judgement in decision-making and the validity of system dynamics models that rely on the quantification of human judgement. accidents adaptive toolbox Black Hawk business process re-engineering bounded rationality BPR CATWOE causality causal loop diagram cognition complexity complex strategic problems cognitive mapping combat training centre concept mapping decision-making decision support systems defence preparedness double loop learning dynamic behaviour dynamic complexity feedback feedback loop feedback structure helicopter crash heuristic influence diagram IISD learning Katie Bender knowledge managerial cognition defence materiel naturalistic decision making project management qualitative modelling quantitative modelling recognition-primed decision making risk risk management root definition Royal Canberra Hospital situation awareness soft systems methodology strategy strategy development system dynamics front-end tool system dynamics modelling systems theory systems thinking systemic problems wicked problems

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