SYSTEMS-ANALYSIS AS DIALOG - AN OVERVIEW

In order to develop a view of the basis for systems analysis practice, this paper examines the relations among problem situations, decision makers, and systems analysis activities. Its central thesis is that th ese relations constitute a form of dialogue that is essential for effe ctive systems analysis work. Although the context of the discussion is restricted to the one in which systems analysis has been classically effective (problem situations that are relatively easy to structure, i n which some important aspect is dominated by technology, and where th ere are identifiable decision makers), the basis established here can be extended to broader contexts.