An adaptive use of Soft Systems Methodology with Strategic Assumption Surfacing and Testing, Critical Systems Heuristics and Interactive Planning in a women's prison

This study uses the two strands model of Soft Systems Methodology (SSM) with other change methodologies within a single intervention to elicit new insights into a multi‐methodology and address problems detected in a women's prison in Turkey. Evaluating the strengths and weaknesses of SSM, the study proposes to use SSM, as a core approach, with Strategic Assumption Surfacing and Testing (SAST), Critical Systems Heuristics (CSH) and Interactive Planning (IP), as subordinate methodologies. The multi‐methodology integrates group formation of SAST into the cultural and logic‐based streams of analysis of SSM. Also, it adapts assumption surfacing, dialectical debate and synthesis of SAST, boundary questions of CSH and resource planning of IP to a logic‐driven stream of inquiry of SSM. The study reports the methodological effects of this approach and examples of psychosocial services and a performance appraisal system to assist human well‐being and promote public safety in a women's prison.