Using Soft Systems Methodology to Address Supply Chain Management Problems

Abstract

This paper reports an investigation of if, and how, Soft Systems Methodology (SSM) might.be used to facilitate better management of industry supply chains. In two workshops involving supply chain managers from the Textile Clothing and Footwear (TCP) industry and industry facilitators, ways in which SSM techniques might supplement existing Supply Chain Management (SCM) workshop approaches have been explored. Specifically, the placement of SSM techniques within a workshop setting, reactions to the techniques, perceived reasons for using SSM, together with strengths and difficulties encountered, have been examined.

Exploring the complexity of sugarcane supply chains via systemic approaches

“…From the range of systemic approaches, soft systems methodology (SSM) and the viable system model (VSM) were chosen. Neither of these methodologies have been comprehensively used in the sugar industry context before, and their application to supply chains is limited (Smajgl et al , 2006; Gencoglu et al , 2002; Soares et al , 2008). SSM was chosen due to its ability to facilitate comprehensive insight, learning and improvement and for its focus on stakeholder participation (Checkland and Poulter, 2006).…”

Analysing Online Teaching and Learning Systems Using MEAD

“…There are a total of seven stages in the standard SSM methodology. Gencoglu, Altmann, Smith, & Mackay (2002) applied SSM to the study of supply chain management (SCM) on the premise that SCM is affected by cultural, political, and social issues and that SSM would be an effective tool to deal with these "soft" problems. The research centred on workshops where the participants in the SCM made use of the techniques of SSM (rich pictures, conceptual models, etc).…”