Soft Systems Methodology - The 7-Stage Approach of SSM

The 7-Stage Approach of SSM

The original version of SSM as a seven-stage methodology published in Checkland's "Systems Thinking, Systems Practice" has since been superseded in Checkland's work. However, the seven stage model is still widely used and widely taught because its step-wise nature makes it easily teachable. Most important, the model has a barrier running across it to differentiate stages between the Real World, above the line, and Systems Thinking, below the line; the rigor to the method and a latter day pons asinorum for many students,

The seven stages are:

1. Entering the problem situation.
2. Expressing the problem situation.
3. Formulating root definitions of relevant systems.
4. Building Conceptual Models of Human Activity Systems.
5. Comparing the models with the real world.
6. Defining changes that are desirable and feasible.
7. Taking action to improve the real world situation.

The dynamics of the method come from the fact that stages (2) through (4) are always an iterative process. The stake-holders (defined as Client, Actors and Owner) engage in a debate guided by the analyst/facilitator. During this debate various root definitions (succinct statements of appropriate systems) and conceptual models are put forward, modified and developed until a desirable model is achieved by consensus. This model then forms the basis for real world changes.