Interaction, transformation and information systems development – an extended application of Soft Systems Methodology Available to Purchase

Soft Systems Methodology (SSM) has long been involved in information systems development through the medium of action research. Its social constructivist paradigm and managerial focus distinguish it from most software engineering development approaches. Checkland’s underlying view of systems development, however, is heavily influenced by traditional waterfall models – something of a contradiction. This paper uses recent developments in SSM to develop a more appropriate systems development concept: the interaction‐transformation‐interaction (ITI) model. The model views systems development primarily as a social and managerial task, rather than a technical one. It was successfully used (in conjunction with developed forms of SSM which incorporate analysis based on structuration theory) to structure the development of an intranet in a university department. The experience led to a further series of reflections on the model.