System dynamics is considered one of the fundamental approaches to systems thinking, as such an analytical model laid the foundation for the critical evaluation of engineering systems. The notion of system dynamics stands for the process of identifying and observing the nonlinear patterns within a complex system. Fundamentally, this method of thinking helps engineers estimate how the relationship of various components of a sophisticated system influences its behavior compared to the individual impact of each of its constituents. The problems faced by the researchers may be resolved with the help of system dynamics simulation models that slightly modify each of the variables in order to track changes and delays in the product or process outcome. As a result, this method is highly beneficial for cases when the interrelation between the components is so complex that it is imperative to create a graphic simulation of a process to define how each component contributes to its counterparts’ performance.
The soft systems method, for its part, does not place primary emphasis on the peculiarities of internal component cooperation. Instead, this method aims at discovering the “soft” aspects of a system, including possible external perceptions. Essentially, the soft systems approach appeals to the fact that a series of external factors exist, such as attitudes and policies, that might significantly impact the systems. Thus, in order not to overlook such an impact, it is vital to gather as much information as possible concerning one’s perception of a system and create a number of alternative system models and solutions. As a result, a number of potential paths and solutions are present for a task in a form systemigram, and an optimal decision is made. Thus, the application of the soft systems method is crucial in terms of the critical evaluation of a system in terms of the possible perceptions and outcomes.
When considering the aforementioned methods, one should note a fundamental difference in the approaches to system appraisal. In the case of system dynamics, the primary focus is placed on the interrelation between components at a given time in a given setting. As a result, there is no option to consider alternative systems simultaneously with the evaluation of the complex feedback loops and variable modifications. The soft systems approach, on the other hand, is mostly preoccupied with the critical appraisal of a system prior to implementing any changes and modifications to the system. Hence, whereas system dynamics aim at bringing understanding and insight to a complex systemic endeavor, the soft systems approach puts a system into a bigger perspective in order to estimate the course of action.
Undeniably, no approach to systems thinking should exist in isolation from others, as the ability to combine the perspectives is of exceptional value to engineering. However, if one method is to be chosen, the soft systems approach is more applicable to the modern context. While the variety of a single system under diverse circumstances is important, the ability to put a system into various perspectives is a mandatory requirement of today’s socio-economic context. According to Mello et al. (2017), the ability to account for different attitudes to a system is facilitated in the system dynamics, whereas the soft systems approach perceives this multitude as a guide to the most realistic and functional systemic model. For this reason, it may be concluded that despite the demand for a joint approach to system appraisal and examination, the “soft” aspect of systems thinking has now been prioritized in the social context.
Reference
Mello, M. H., Gosling, J., Naim, M. M., Strandhagen, J. O., & Brett, P. O. (2017). Improving coordination in an engineer-to-order supply chain using a soft systems approach. Production Planning & Control, 28(2), 89-107.