Systems Approach - Introduction and Classification

Introduction to 'A System'

System is a word that one comes across almost all the while when referring to organizations. What exactly is this system?

When different parts of an organization join together to work in accord and thus become interdependent, through a common purpose, to achieve the same ultimate goal, then it is called as 'a system'.

Take a simple example of the human body. Our body is made up of various organs which perform a specific function. But on a whole they are interrelated are interdependent for the smooth functioning of the body. Hence, we can say that, our body is a system.

Classification 

Systems can be classified as:

Open and closed systems:

Open system: A system in which, its components accept changes from the environment for better performance is called an open system. Consider a school scenario, in which the components of the system comprise of the administration department, the faculty, the students, the management, and others. These components are all affected by the rules of the board management (the ones which they follow). Although the members of the board are not present in the school, the transactions are still prevalent. This association of the school with its environment can be classified under an open system.

Closed system: A system in which, its components do not accept changes from the environment is called an open system. Consider the local railway system of Mumbai. The train does not stop for its passengers to aboard in case they are late for aboarding or otherwise. The train runs according to its scheduled time. Since the train does not interact with its environment (the passengers not following the already set rules), with relation to its other components, we can classify it under a closed system.

Micro and macro systems

Micro system: A system which is a part of a larger system is known as a micro system. The drama room of a school can be considered as a micro system.

Macro system: Many micro systems together constitute a macro system. A university can be considered as a macro system as it consists of many micro systems such as examination dept, classrooms, faculty, students and the others in order to function.

Animate and inanimate systems

Animate system: Systems which have a life of its own are called animate systems. Example: humans, plants, the government, a running school etc.

Inanimate system: a system which falls under the category of non living things. Example: A motor car, a computer, a building etc.