Which systems methodology when?
initial results from a research programme
pp. 235-241
in: Robert L. Flood, Michael C. Jackson, Paul Keys (eds), Systems prospects, Berlin, Springer, 1989Abstract
During 1983/84 Paul Keys and I initiated a research programme, within the Department of Management Systems and Sciences, University of Hull, aimed theoretically at explaining the relationship between different operational research and systems-based methodologies, and practically at discovering the efficacy of particular approaches in various problem contexts. This paper is the first attempt to present an overall assessment of that research programme. The programme itself is first described. This is followed by examples of practical interventions, included to illustrate the range and purpose of the programme. Some theoretical developments that have taken place are then charted. In a conclusion, the research programme is assessed in terms of its contribution, respectively, to possible future research, to teaching and to consultancy applications.