Activity theory (AT) is a powerful tool for investigating "artefacts in use", ie, the ways technologies interrelate with their local context. AT reveals the interfaces between e-learning at the macro- (strategy, policy, "campus-wide" solutions) and the micro-organisational levels (everyday working practice, iterative change, individual…

Recent developments in science and engineering indicate the need for systems approach to problem solving in the widest sense. Following the explication of the concept of a system, the scope of system theory and systems engineering is discussed and operationally defined, with characteristic features of the methodology of systems science and…

In discussing the application of systems analysis to educational planning, the author examines political, economic, and technological constraints and suggests practical accommodations. (Author)

The library cannot be considered as an isolated entity, but must be considered in relationship to its place in the international information network and to its place within the institution which it serves. The library collection must also be considered within its framework. Integrated management of the collection implies that all aspects of…

Sets forth series of steps as approach to design of an educational activity. They include the need objectives, constraints, and model. Cites an existing program. (Author/CJ)

Based on Auerback's study of the present structures and processes of the Work Incentive (WIN) Program, the Model WIN System is a portrayal of what the program would look like if a number of suggested changes were made. Its purpose is to envision an "ideal" system within reasonable constraints and limitations. This report presents the…

Describes the Training Effectiveness Algorithm, a systematic procedure for identifying the cause of reported training problems which was developed for use in the U.S. Navy. A two-step review by subject matter experts is explained, and applications of the algorithm to other organizations and training systems are discussed. (Author/LRW)

Examines recent developments in field of systems theory that can improve library management practices by broadening perspective in which these problems may be approached. The concept of organizational life cycles is discussed and a paradigm for application of its principles is developed. An Rx decision chart is appended. (9 references) (EJS)

Systemic planning is an operational approach to using scientific rigor and qualitative judgment in a complementary manner. It integrates rigorous techniques and methods from systems analysis, cybernetics, decision theory, and work programing. The annotated reference sources in this bibliography include those works that have been most influential…

This report relates principles of system analysis and work study techniques to library activities in order to aid librarians in their assessment of library work. The meaning and methods of system analysis and work study are explored and the system concepts of organization purpose, work goals and performance objectives are defined and applied to…

Resource acquisition is a general process active in all social organizations. The relative success of organizational resource mobilization determines whose goals and values will be met. Several factors impinge on resource mobilization, including suborganizational levels, technological sophistication, professionalization, and unionization.…

Describes systems management, the coordination of information flows among the functional areas of business as an aid in the decision-making process. (Author)

Reports the results of a corporate planning survey involving fifteen United Kingdom companies and an experimental planning system developed as a research tool to investigate aspects of interactive planning. (Author)