Using ssm and software prototyping

an emergent methodology for an ethical information system

Frances Bell

Robert C. Davis

pp. 1-14

in: Trevor Wood Harper, Nimal Jayaratna, Bob Wood (eds), Methodologies for developing and managing emerging technology based information systems, Berlin, Springer, 1999

Abstract

We examine one particular example of multi-paradigm methodology — the combination of Soft Systems Methodology and software prototyping — to identify its strengths and weaknesses when used in the analysis of an "ethically sensitive' information system. A range of theories and concepts is used to explore the emergent methodology, and the issues of boundary setting and participation are addressed in the context of this case study. The methodology is found generally effective but the ethical issues are seen to be privileged at the expense of the organisational analysis.