bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Current status of hospital management information systems
Authors: Hoye R. E. , Bryant D. D. 
Published: February 2011

AbstractAdvanced information systems are becoming a critical factor for hospitals to meet internal needs and external demands. This article reviews the current approaches for usage of hospital information systems, and presents the results of a 1983 survey which examines the actual state of use in an urban area. Data show that most of the hospitals have a management information system with a few planning management science and decision support capability. However, there seems to be a lag between examples in the literature and common practice.
Recent advances in multivariable system modeling and identification algorithms and their applications
Authors: El‐Sherief H. 
Published: February 2011

AbstractDue to the recent advances and diversity of the subject of modeling and identification of multivariable systems and its important applications in many different traditional and new areas, a need arises for a unification of the existing literature on this subject. In this paper, most of the algorithms which have been proposed for identifying linear discrete‐time multivariable systems from input‐output data will be studied and classified according to the model used. Also, different types of applications and related topics to the subject of multivariable system identification and the features of some identification algorithms when implemented on dedicated computers with limited word length will be discussed.
Methodology in the large: Modeling all there is
Authors: Gaines Brian R. 
Published: February 2011

AbstractThe human mind has been inventive of a multitude of methodologies to explain observed phenomena, predict possible worlds, determine which ones should be made real and bring this about. In recent years the computer has enhanced our capability to project the detail of possible worlds and widen our vision of the consequences of our actions. We bring together the physical and human variables, political and economic policies and constraints of resources and expect increasing model realism. With advances in computer technology we have begun to see the possibility of large‐scale methodologies that eventually cope with all there is. This paper is concerned with placing our endeavours for model realism in the socioeconomic sphere within the much broader context of humankind's overall endeavours for model realism. It expresses the main philosophical problems underlying our situation in a parable, and then goes on to sketch some of the solutions proposed for them in the past. It concludes with a model for the role of the computer as a vehicle to explore Popper's World 3, and the use of his notion of three worlds to express the different styles and motivations of schools of modeling and concepts of realism.
Bureaucracy as organizational pathology
Authors: Acar William , Aupperle Kenneth E. 
Published: February 2011

AbstractThis paper investigates the strengths and weaknesses that bureaucracies derive from their structural rigidity. The first section delineates the historic mission of bureaucracy and its perceived gradual perversion. A second section examines the mechanism through which bureaucracy degenerates from an organizational optimization to an organizational pathology. The viewpoint espoused here reflects the systems approach, particularly such authors as Ackoff, Emery and Trist, and the connection they envision between function, adaptation and learning. It is basically argued that the modern phenomenon of overbureaucratization takes its roots in a deterministic view of causality and a rigid quest for optimality. It is also argued in a final section that bureaucracy has become a systemic phenomenon with a potential for exporting pathological behavior beyond strict organizational boundaries. The discussion implicitly illustrates the advantage of adaptive mechanisms of management and control over non‐adaptive mechanisms which are initially set to produce optimality.
The emergence of two‐dimensional science in the information society
Authors: Klir George J. 
Published: February 2011

AbstractThe paper overviews characteristics of systems science and three basic types of societies—the pre‐industrial society, industrial society and information (or post‐industrial) society. The meanings of systems knowledge, methodology and metamethodology are discussed. It is argued that systems science is a product of the information society and that it represents a new dimension in science, complementary to traditional science.
Editorial: Software survey section
Authors: Warfield John N. , Hall Thompson 
Published: February 2011

AbstractThe introduction of a new Software Survey Section to SYSTEMS RESEARCH is to encourage the open exchange of information on software programs relevant to our professional field. With the rapid penetration of computers into academic and industrial institutions has come a parallel increase in the number of scientists and researchers designing their own software. The existence of much of this software remains unknown to even those of us who could most benefit from its use. We believe that it is of vital importance to our readers that such information be made available. We believe also that a professional journal is the best place to share such information. Your contribution would be most welcome.
Dynamics in hierarchically organized systems: A general model applied to ecology, biology and economics
Authors: Auger Pierre 
Published: February 2011

AbstractPhysical and biological systems are composed with many levels of organization. To these different levels of organization are associated different levels of description, i.e. large classes of models relative to each of these levels. For instance, in ecology, roughly one distinguishes three levels of organization, the individual level, the population level and the ecosystem level, and consequently three large classes of models may be found, individual strategy models, population dynamical models (like the Leslie model) and ecosystem dynamical models (like the Lotka‐Volterra model). In this work, we present general methods to jump from one level to the next. For a two level system, one obtains two weakly coupled sets of equations (each one being relative to each level). The coupling terms allow one to study the interactions between the levels. This general method is then applied to ecology (coupled individual and population levels), to molecular and cellular biology (coupled chemical and cellular levels), and to economics (coupled sectorial and regional levels). One of our particular interests is to be able to obtain experimental verifications of the inter‐level coupling effects, which means simultaneous using of experimental data relative to both levels for the same system.
Strategic planning for research and management of the albacore tuna fishery: Correction
Authors: Mackett David J. 
Published: February 2011

AbstractThe following figure (p. 53) was omitted from “Strategic Planning for Research and Management of the Albacore Tuna Fishery” by D. J. Mackett, published in Systems Research Vol. 2, No. 3, pp. 201–210. This figure, Fig. 4, is a graphic display of the final results of the design process described in the article.
System theory as frame of reference in natural language processing
Authors: Vaccari E. , Delaney W. 
Published: February 2011

AbstractWe describe the overall philosophy of a computational approach to natural language processing entirely developed in a System Theory Paradigm. A metalanguage to represent world knowledge and theoretical system knowledge is described and criteria for a semantic parsing based on a systems approach are outlined. The approach is applicable to a variety of natural language, which is restricted but not limited to one discourse domain.
An options‐choice methodology for technological projects in developing countries
Authors: Al‐Khayat Faleh H. M. , Edwards John S. 
Published: February 2011

AbstractMaking decisions about large technological projects is never straightforward, because of their sheer complexity. However, when carried out in an environment in which the major considerations are financial, the task is simplified by the dominance of quantifiable criteria. In developing countries, on the other hand, the importance of such large technological projects to the country's overall development in social and technological, as well as economic, terms requires an evaluation process based on multiple criteria. The resolution of conflicts between these criteria is further complicated by the multiple agencies which are involved in a typical project in a centrally‐planned developing country. A structured systems approach to the decision‐making process is therefore clearly necessary. This paper sets out a methodology for options choice in the context of a large technological project in a developing country which is undergoing rapid growth and relies on central planning and control.
Strategic materials policy: A system study
Authors: Clark Thomas D. , Emmelhainz Larry W. 
Published: February 2011

AbstractThe research reported in this paper deals with the current structure of United States policy concerning strategic minerals and materials systems. An extensive systems analysis is reported and a system dynamics model is presented which allows experimentation with various policy alternatives available to develop strategic reserves. The model was developed using interview data from key officials and from an extensive review of current literature pertaining to the topic. It centers on the system for producing processed materials and developing mineral sources. An application example using chromium and focusing on stockpiling alternatives is discussed.
Bifurcations and structural stability in the dynamical systems modeling process
Authors: Aracil Javier 
Published: February 2011

AbstractThe dynamical systems modeling process of complex systems (particularly in the ‘soft’ systems context) involves a sequence of theoretical frameworks which supply the ‘mechanisms’ that regulate the interactions between the elements that form the system. Changes are made along the modeling process in those theoretical frameworks that could lead to new behavior modes. Using tools taken from qualitative theory of dynamical systems the relationship between the appearance of new behavior modes and the occurrence of bifurcations in the models is analyzed in this paper. An application to a family of models that is representative of the modeling process of an urban area is included.
Restoring order: Relating entropy to energy and information
Authors: Bailey Kenneth D. 
Published: February 2011

Abstract‘Order’ is a central concept in many disciplines. As such it is an important tool in our effort to build a general systems theory which integrates interdisciplinary research. Unfortunately, it has been suggested that the concept be abandoned, as it is said to have contradictory meanings in relation to entropy. This situation is seen as symptomatic of the existence of paradigm anomalies. Anomalies are of two types: Exclusionary, resulting from paradigms which exclude certain key principles; and inclusionary, resulting from paradigms which include contradictory concepts or principles. This paper analyzes and resolves three key inclusionary anomalies. These are: The relationship between entropy and energy; the relationship between entropy and complexity; and the relationship between entropy and information. Once these anomalies are resolved, the apparent contradictions in the concept of ‘order’ disappear.
Dimensionality
Authors: Warfield J. N. , Christakis A. N. 
Published: February 2011

AbstractNew definitions of ‘dimensionality’ and ‘dimension’ are set forth that dominate older definitions. Dominance means not that older interpretations are violated, but that the sense of the new interpretation extends substantially the sense of older interpretations, thereby opening up the use of the term in a much broader class of situations.Among the benefits of the new interpretation of dimensionality are: Greater understanding of situations, greater effectiveness in describing situations, more lucid descriptions, better system designs, substantive cross‐discipline problem‐solving activities that cannot now be carried out in a common framework, and the potential for a more coherent community of scholars.
A philosophical inquiry into the geometry of knowledge
Authors: Stuart Franklin J. 
Published: February 2011

AbstractUsing an interdisciplinary systems approach, this paper presents a comprehensive overview of our scientific knowledge of the Cosmos within a conceptual four dimensional tetrahedral geometry where relationships are primary. Vital to the development of this model is a proposed innovative pattern, using the 48 basic measure formulas and their associated 24 relationships from within the area of physics. It is from these patterns, developed at the most basic level of our scientific understanding, geometry and physics, that the proposal is made that these patterns might be carried over into other areas and meaningful conclusions drawn. Since this is a philosophical inquiry, only patterns and relationships within and between fields of scientific knowledge have been demonstrated. Detailed development of the tetrahedral geometric patterning and the placement of knowledge within five transcendent classifications has been demonstrated. Challenging tentative conclusions in many areas, including human relations involving conflict resolution and avoidance of war, have also been presented.
Correspondence: Speculations on the use of shannon's entropy formula to characterize an organizational structure (university of cincinnati)
Authors: Hershey Daniel , Patel Valabhai , Hahn John 
Published: February 2011

AbstractFrom Shannon's informational entropy formula, a power index for each organizational unit and an organizational efficiency were developed for the structure of a corporation. Of the four models tested, it was shown that a horizontal configuration is most efficient, a chaos model least. Chaos occurs when each unit is completely independent and has the same budget. These concepts were applied to the University of Cincinnati to show that the efficiency diminished from 81 to 74% during its 1962–1963 through 1979–1980 period of rapid expansion when the budget increased four‐fold (corrected for inflation). At the same time, students enrolled, per dollar (corrected for inflation), declined by about 50%.
A methodology for methodology choice
Authors: Keys Paul 
Published: February 2011

AbstractThere are currently available a variety of methodologies which aid the improvement of problematic situations which can legitimately claim to be grounded in systems approaches. These have emerged over many years and each methodology has unique features which enable it to be used successfully in particular types of situation. Recently several attempts have been made to structure this set of methodologies. In these contingency theories the nature of the problem and the characteristics of the methodologies are matched in such a way that the strengths and weaknesses of the methodologies are brought out.In this paper this theoretical work is extended by developing a methodology for methodology choice. In this methodology the insights provided by the contingency theories are used to support a set of procedures which enable an informed choice of systems‐based problem‐solving methodology to be made. Two examples of the use of the methodology are given to illustrate its potential as a means of improving the ability of systems theorists to intervene successfully in real‐world issues.
Implicit aspects of much systems thinking
Authors: Warfield John N. 
Published: February 2011

AbstractMuch systems thinking involves implicit aspects upon which the validity, credibility, and even the meaning of the products of the thought depend. The consequences of following misguided, implicit presuppositions vary in intensity according to the milieu in which such presuppositions govern. Two important areas in which the consequences can be very severe to society today are (a) large system design and operation and (b) management of organizations that produce or manage such systems.Division of a ConceptSeveral key notions can play a role in converting many of the implicit aspects into explicit features. Among these are the notions of:Integration of Component ConceptsDefinition by RelationshipGradation of Beliefall of which benefit by taking the mathematical Theory of Relations as an underlying language for expression.Much of the implicitness in science and in systems thinking derives from the failure to recognize explicitly three Universal Priors to all science: The human being, language, and reasoning through relationships. Recognition of a body of knowledge as a science ought to be conditional on the studied, relevant, and explicit incorporation of these three features in the science.Referential transparency, a key criterion for any science, is potentially greatly enhanced by replacing implicit or superficial recognition of the Universal Priors with explicit, detailed incorporation of them in the science.Through the combined impact of application of the key notions mentioned above; together with explicit recognition of the Universal Priors in the Foundations of a science or of systems thinking; along with the discipline, steering, and organization provided by measuring the science against the Domain of Science Model; it becomes feasible to upgrade substantially the quality of systems thinking, of science, and of applications of science.
Systemic, not just systematic
Authors: Smith Richard L. 
Published: February 2011

AbstractInquiry toward object systems too often has the support of only a limited disciplinary perspective. The practice of system science offers an opportunity to frame a design of inquiry. A systemic design of inquiry toward object systems evolves into a Meta inquiry of inquiry. Three levels of Meta awareness are indicated and organized from the trace of Systems Research publications. An ethic toward building the systemic premise by the awareness of an epistemic design is both recognized and urged for developmental evolution.
Towards constructing a typology of corporate leadership
Authors: Katsenelinboigen A. 
Published: February 2011

AbstractThe intricate typology of Western business leaders is presented in the economic literature of today in a rather sporadic and atomized way. In the present work I attempt to deduce from a single model the various types of business leaders. I put together a matrix of the possible types of a firm's leadership. One axis represents the degree of subjectivity of the decisions made by the leader. The other dimension reflects the extent of the limitations imposed upon the leader by the internal rules of the organization in elaborating and implementing decisions.The degree of subjectivity is denoted by the following three methods: Belief, aesthetic, and scientific. The extent of the leader's limitations is expressed as either strong, moderate, or weak. Variety of leadership types reflects the relative degree of subjectivity in the evaluation of his decisions as well as the severity of the limitations imposed upon him.The above matrix shows both the existing types of leaders (such as administrators, managers, etc.) as well as the new ones (for instance, navigators). This approach may help reveal the deficit in the types of leaders needed to overcome the increasingly complicated tasks of developing and implementing innovative ideas.
Seven distinctive paths of decision and action
Authors: Kinston Warren , Algie Jimmy 
Published: February 2011

AbstractA set of distinct approaches to decision and action is offered as developed from collaborative inquiry with practising managers. The approaches so elicited align frequently, but not invariably or precisely, with accounts in the literature. They are named: Rationalist, empiricist, pragmatist, dialectic, systemic, structuralist and intuitionist. Each approach tends to be advocated over‐enthusiastically by its proponents as a full and appropriate response for all contingencies. The characteristic advantages and difficulties of each are examined, and issues in the selection of a preferred approach are explored.
The high frontier of global competitiveness: Systems research into strategies of knowledge and co‐operation
Authors: Smothers Norman P. 
Published: February 2011

AbstractWith the continuing rise of Japan's economic fortunes it remains important that we understand what is taking place, that is, the evolving patterns of world‐class strategy. Japan has established itself as a world economic leader with a constitutional ban on building war‐making capabilities, that is, without a strategic defense capability to back up its conquests. This unique feature makes Japan in the later half of the 20th century especially important to understand.Several lessons can be learned from Japan's recent economic ‘miracle’: (a) that tremendous economic potential lies in seeking ever higher value‐added in productivity, processes, goods and services; (b) that natural resource limitations can be overcome without resort to coercively taking resources from other countries; (c) that military buildups of coercive force may divert resources needed for economic competitiveness and are not necessary to becoming a world economic power. This paper explores, in the context of Japan's successes, the increasing importance of: (1) creating value through knowledge, and (2) managing relationships and competition in terms of cooperative ‘win‐win’ scenarios as opposed to a ‘win‐lose’ battles of coercion. From Japan's example, it is argued, strategies of creating new value through knowledge and co‐operation represent the high frontier of global competitiveness today—that economic competitiveness resulting from gaining control of the world's sources of new value creation, as opposed to amassing control of coercive force, is how world position is now being won or lost.
A case study in options choice
Authors: Al‐Khayat Faleh H. M. , Edwards John S. 
Published: February 2011

AbstractThis paper considers the feasibility of applying an options‐choice methodology to a key decision in a large technological project, on the basis of interviews with the decision‐makers involved. The actual process by which the decision was made is described, and contrasted with that suggested by the methodology. Potential improvements which could have been achieved are identified, and the reaction of the decision‐makers suggests that it would have been feasible to use the methodology in this decision situation.
Design of the Modern Inquiring System—V. Etienne Bonnot de Condillac (1715‐1780)
Authors: Pavesi Pablo E. , Pavesi Pedro F. J. 
Published: February 2011

AbstractThis paper is the fifth instalment of a series of articles ‘which traces the development of the modern Inquiring System, a system dedicated to the acquisition, production and dissemination of knowledge’. It attempts to underline Condillac's thought only with respect to aspects which bear relevance to IS and System Theory.