SSM for Information System Development

references:Information Systems Provision, the contribution of

SSM, Stowell, F. (Ed) McGraw HillInformation Systems Development, Lewis, P.

Pitman

linking SSM to other methodologies Multiview SSADM OOA+D, structured

methods in general embedding grafting (ex: OOAD Mathiessen et al)

conceptual models DFD’s ‘interpretive’ data models (Lewis)

a wide range of potential applications

focus more on the non-technical elements of systems development

all organisational computing developments have organisational problems to solve

simple and useful methodological support in situations where not much other help available

a wide range of related IS development tasks

information management (see Wilson, B. ‘Systems: Concepts, methodologies and Applications’)

information requirements analysis IS strategy

(see Galliers R., Ormerod, R.)

understanding the differences between SSM and structured methods

SSM structured methods

subjective (interpretive) philosophy objective philosophy

systems + sociological theory base computer science + systems theory

flexible methodology rigid method

organisational problem- solving focus data, process, database, technical focus

creative/intuitive scientifically analytical

analyst is facilitator analyst is expert

participative analyst dominated

organisational learning outcomes computer design outcomes

several ambiguous outcomes one ‘correct‘ solution

Discussion questions

1. What aspects of information systems development was SSM used to help with in the intranet case?

2. Compare the basic model of information system development (the ITI model) with other models you are familiar with.

3. How would you combine SSM with other development methods that you are familiar with?

4. What are the limitations of SSM in information system development work?