A system is a collection of elements and relationships, held together by a purpose in common. An HPT practitioner must be familiar with the concept of systems to understand the complex interrelationships between various components of an organization. The basic system contains three components: inputs, processes, and outputs. Input is the data flowing into the system from outside. Input maybe in the form of raw materials, information, human resources, or equipment. Processes are the actions that convert these inputs into outputs. Outputs are the products produced by these processes. Other elements that can be added into the basic system models are effects and feedback. Effects are the changes resulting from the outputs of the system and feedback is the information regarding the system and its operation.
System modeling is helpful to a human performance analyst in several ways. One primary benefit is that it helps to isolate and document the multitude of interrelated components that exist in the system. Modeling can help the analyst see the relationship between each element and the impact they have on each other. System modeling also gives the analyst the big-picture view of the system and helps to determine where to start in identifying problems or their causes.
In order to represent systems in an appropriate way, it is necessary to know the stakeholders and the purposes, identify the boundaries around the system, identify the components in the system, identify possible relationships between these components, and choose a suitable method to describe those relationships. A system model should also indicate the likely outcome of different possible processes.
An example of a system model that brings together the major components of a school curriculum system which helps to analyze, design, develop and manage the curriculum, teaching and learning.
System Modeling Job Aid
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