1) Identify the system of interest.  Specify the system boundaries and especially the level of details in which you are interested.  This involves identifying sub-systems or components within the overall system.  If possible, describe the existing system with a physical model, show the processes and how they are performed.  The objective is to understand how the processes are currently performed. 

2) Recognize the purpose of the systems study, and identify the purpose of modeling within the system.  The most common purposes include improving understanding of a situation, supporting decision making, and identifying problems or formulating opportunities.  Modeling can be used to support all of these and this should lead to increased understanding.

3) Identify the main features or behaviors of the system of interest using steps 1 and 2.  This step involves further simplification and clarification by specifying components of the system that can be aggregated together or omitted from the system modeling activity. 

4) Select a system modeling technique that will address the behaviors of the specified system in a way that suits the specified purpose.  Different techniques are used to suit to different purposes.

5) Develop an outline of a suitable system model using the rules, techniques, and tools of the selected modeling technique.  Use this outline to check compliance with steps 1, 2, and 3.  Consult with the users and management to evaluate this proposed system model.  If necessary, modify the model or make adjustments to suit the evaluator feedback as well as specifications from steps 1, 2, and 3. 

6) Develop a complete version of the system model by expanding and including detailed data as required.