The management of socio-technical systems using configuration modelling

Article type: Research Article

Authors: Lock, Simon

Affiliations: Computing Department, Lancaster University, Lancaster, LA1 4YR, UK, Tel.: +44 1524 592792; Fax: +44 1524 593608; E-mail: lock@comp.lancs.ac.uk

Abstract: In this paper we describe a new approach and support tool for the modelling and analysis of socio-technical system configurations. This novel approach has been developed for use on systems composed of a wide variety of different components including social and organisational elements, in addition to the more traditional software and hardware aspects. Configuration models of such systems are lightweight and quick to construct and can help to promote understanding by the various stakeholders involved in system development, operation and evolution. These models also provide the data required for performing various useful forms of automated analysis. The results of such analysis can allow managers, administrators, developers and end users to investigate various efficiency, productivity and dependability attributes of the current configuration of a system. This can help support decisions about the evolution of a system by allowing the assessment of proposed changes such as the addition or removal of components, processes and structures. In this paper we utilise a real world case study in order to demonstrate and evaluate the utility of the described approach.

Keywords: Socio-technical systems, component structure, configuration modelling, configuration analysis, system management, dependability investigation

DOI: 10.3233/HSM-2004-23103

Journal: Human Systems Management, vol. 23, no. 1, pp. 29-47, 2004