THE STRUCTURING AND ANALYSIS OF COMPLEX SYSTEM PROBLEMS
Abstract
Many complex systems consist of too many different types of elements and are influenced by too many factors to lend themselves readily to conceptualization through mathematical models, without introducing unrealistic oversimplifications. To structure such systems realiztically, an approach has been developed which begins with the classification of the elements affecting the system and the determination of the existence of certain types of relations between these elements. The approach which is known as the System Analysis and Integration Model (SAIM) has been applied to the analysis of a number of system problems concerning weapon system development, including command and control. Other problem areas to which the method has been applied are the analysis of postattack recovery, political conflicts, and large-scale organizations. The paper concludes with a discussion of the function of this general approach in the development of formal models which realistically represent complex system problems. (Author)
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- May 01, 1961
- Accession Number
- AD0260063
Entities
People
- Albert Shapero
- K.h. Schaeffer
Organizations
- SRI International