Hard and soft systems : a common paradigm for operations management

Reviews the development of a systems approach to problem solving and operational management, including the differentiation between hard and soft systems. Argues that, given the occurrence in most problem situations of both technical and human dimensions, a hybrid of scientific, hard systems and soft systems methodologies will give the best solution. The soft systems approach will ensure that the human dimension is incorporated at an early stage in the process and that all groups of people are involved in developing a solution. Within this soft systems overview, hard systems and scientific techniques can be used to optimize aspects of the solution.