The Formal System Model : Understanding And Preventing Information Systems Project Failures

Use of systems thinking to understand failures has been a well-established practice for many years and with this has come the development of systems techniques and methods specifically for that purpose. One of the best known of these is the Formal System Model (FSM). It is a model of a robust system that is capable of purposeful activity without failure against which a systems representation of an actual or potential failures situation can be compared. This chapter explains the elements and interrelationships within the FSM and techniques that have been associated with its application. It then reports on a major program of work to develop a project-specific version of the FSM and shows the very full extent to which Critical Success Factors can be mapped onto the FSM and surveys of project managers. A hitherto unpublished study then demonstrates application of the FSM in order to review an organization’s past, current and planned activities. Finally the chapter draws conclusions from the work reported.