A methodology for methodology choice
In: Systems research, Band 5, Heft 1, S. 65-76
AbstractThere are currently available a variety of methodologies which aid the improvement of problematic situations which can legitimately claim to be grounded in systems approaches. These have emerged over many years and each methodology has unique features which enable it to be used successfully in particular types of situation. Recently several attempts have been made to structure this set of methodologies. In these contingency theories the nature of the problem and the characteristics of the methodologies are matched in such a way that the strengths and weaknesses of the methodologies are brought out.In this paper this theoretical work is extended by developing a methodology for methodology choice. In this methodology the insights provided by the contingency theories are used to support a set of procedures which enable an informed choice of systems‐based problem‐solving methodology to be made. Two examples of the use of the methodology are given to illustrate its potential as a means of improving the ability of systems theorists to intervene successfully in real‐world issues.