4.3.1 Towards a Common Language for Systems Praxis

Abstract

AbstractSystems praxis refers to the entire intellectual and practical endeavor of creating holistic solutions to complex system challenges. Systems approaches are designed to be integrative across traditional discipline and domain boundaries. However, multiple dimensions of complexity (social, technical, environmental, etc.) may require a blend of approaches and techniques from disparate systems traditions. Terminology for the various systems domains, scales, and types may appear similar; but assumptions underpinning worldview, culture, and success criteria are not necessarily shared.This paper documents progress towards an integrative framework that brings together concepts, principles, paradigms, and methods from the various communities involved in systems praxis. The notion of using a diagram to allow systems practitioners from different backgrounds to work together more effectively first arose at an April 2012 “Towards a Common Language for Systems Praxis” workshop, conducted as part of an IFSR Conversation. Follow‐up work led to the Systems Praxis Framework diagram that provided a neutral “map” each community can use to explain its own narrative, worldview, and belief system, as well as to appreciate how the various worldviews and belief systems complement and reinforce each other within systems praxis. The Systems Praxis Framework was adopted as a top‐level component of Part 2: Systems in the BKCASE Guide to the Systems Engineering Body of Knowledge. It has also been made available as a 2‐page brochure.