System analysis method comes from system science. System science is a new scientific department that has developed rapidly since the 1940s, spanning many disciplines. It examines and studies the whole objective world from a systematic point of view, and provides scientific theories and methods for human beings to understand and transform the world. Its emergence and development marks the gradual transition of human scientific thinking from "object-centered" to "system-centered", which is an epoch-making breakthrough in scientific thinking.
System analysis is the most basic method of consulting research. We can regard a complex consulting project as a systematic project. Through system target analysis, system element analysis, system environment analysis, system resource analysis and system management analysis, we can accurately diagnose the problem, profoundly reveal the causes of the problem, and effectively propose solutions to meet customer needs.
Steps of system analysis method
The specific steps of the system analysis method include: defining the problem, determining the goal, investigating and collecting data, proposing alternative schemes and evaluation criteria, evaluating alternative schemes and proposing the most feasible scheme.
1, finite problem
The so-called problem is the gap between the actual situation and the planned goal or ideal state. There are two core contents of system analysis: one is "diagnosis", that is, finding out the problems and their causes; The second is "prescribing", that is, putting forward the most feasible solution to the problem. The so-called limited problem is to clarify the nature or characteristics of the problem, the scope and influence of the problem, the time and environment when the problem occurs, the symptoms and causes of the problem, etc. Defining the problem is a key step in system analysis, because if the "diagnosis" is wrong, it will be impossible to prescribe the right medicine in the future. When defining a problem, we should pay attention to distinguish between symptoms and problems, and we should not be preconceived when discussing the cause of the problem. At the same time, we should distinguish which problems are local and which are overall, and the final determination of the problems should be after investigation and study.
2, determine the goal
The goal of system analysis should be determined according to the requirements of customers and the understanding of the problems to be solved. If possible, it should be expressed by indicators and analyzed quantitatively. Goals that cannot be described quantitatively should also be explained clearly in words as far as possible, so as to make qualitative analysis and evaluate the effectiveness of system analysis.
3. Investigate and collect data.
Investigation and data collection should focus on the cause of the problem. On the one hand, we should verify the assumptions formed in the limited problem stage, on the other hand, we should explore the root of the problem and prepare for the next alternative solution to the problem.
There are four methods commonly used in investigation and research, namely, reading literature, interviewing, observing and investigating.
The collected data and information include facts, opinions and attitudes. To eliminate the false and retain the true, cross-check the data and information to ensure authenticity and accuracy.
4. Propose alternatives and evaluation criteria.
Through in-depth investigation and study, the real problems to be solved are finally determined, and the main reasons for the problems are clearly defined. On this basis, alternative solutions to the problem can be put forward. Alternatives are alternative suggestions or designs to solve problems and achieve consulting objectives, and more than two alternatives should be put forward to provide further evaluation and screening. In order to evaluate alternatives, we should consider the nature of the problem and the customer's conditions. Put forward constraints or evaluation criteria for the next step.
5. Alternative assessment
According to the above constraints or evaluation criteria, the evaluation of the problem alternatives should be comprehensive, considering not only technical factors, but also social and economic factors. The evaluation team should be representative, including the representatives of the client organizations in addition to the members of the consulting project. Determine the most feasible scheme according to the evaluation results.
6. Submit the most feasible scheme
The most feasible scheme is not necessarily the best scheme, but the most realistic and feasible scheme selected according to the evaluation criteria within the constraints. If the customer is satisfied, the system analysis has achieved the goal. If the customer is not satisfied, it is necessary to negotiate with the customer to adjust the constraints or evaluation criteria, or even redefine the problem and start a new round of system analysis until the customer is satisfied.