Employing integrated reference models to represent interdependency in a complex enterprise

Abstract

Successful implementation of change in a complex enterprise requires a shared understanding of system interdependency. Otherwise, the architecture of those changes risk the emergence of otherwise unforeseen obstacles. A fundamental element is understanding how the system responds to stimuli. Given the complexity of that system, no single model would adequately represent the totality of the enterprise. As such, we have employed a structured approach based on soft systems methodology and reference models to develop common pictures. These heuristic models act as anchor points for achieving a shared understanding and as a basis for the development of more detailed models. The approach has been applied to defence preparedness; a system containing many levels of inter-dependency, contested by a range of differing viewpoints, multilayered with decisions and activity at a number of levels, and often seeking to rapidly transition to solutions. We present some examples of distinct but inter-related reference models for defence preparedness.

Keywords:

• defence studies
• practice of OR
• problem structuring
• reference models
• soft systems methodology
• systems thinking

Acknowledgements

The authors would like to thank those defence staff who participated in the workshops and Dr Neville Curtis, Dr Terry Moon and two anonymous reviewers for their comments on the paper.

Notes

1 Typically, the life of a major platform (eg, ship) from conception to retirement is 30–50 years.

2 The acronym CATWOE stands for six key dimensions identified in SSM, namely: Customer, Actors, Transformation, Weltanschauung (World-view), Owner, Environment.

3 This evolved into the ‘Force Generation Model’ (see later).