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Validity in SSM: neglected areas

Author

Listed:
  • Ö Pala

    (Nijmegen University)

  • J A M Vennix

    (Nijmegen University)

  • T van Mullekom

    (Nijmegen University)

Abstract

Contrary to the prevailing notion in hard OR, in soft system methodology (SSM), validity seems to play a minor role. The primary reason for this is that SSM models are of a different type, they are not would-be descriptions of real-world situations. Therefore, establishing their validity, that is representativeness with regard to reality, is useless. However, in this paper, we employ a broader meaning of validity (well-groundedness) and demonstrate that this surfaces a couple of neglected areas in the discussion of validity in SSM. These relate to (a) the notion of SSM as a learning system, (b) the idea to improve real-world problem situations, and (c) learning about the effectiveness of SSM itself.

Suggested Citation

  • Ö Pala & J A M Vennix & T van Mullekom, 2003. "Validity in SSM: neglected areas," Journal of the Operational Research Society, Palgrave Macmillan;The OR Society, vol. 54(7), pages 706-712, July.
    • Handle: RePEc:pal:jorsoc:v:54:y:2003:i:7:d:10.1057_palgrave.jors.2601577
    DOI: 10.1057/palgrave.jors.2601577
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Sterman, John., 1994. "Learning in and about complex systems," Working papers 3660-94., Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), Sloan School of Management.
    2. Lane, David C. & Oliva, Rogelio, 1998. "The greater whole: Towards a synthesis of system dynamics and soft systems methodology," European Journal of Operational Research, Elsevier, vol. 107(1), pages 214-235, May.
    3. Simon, Herbert A., 1985. "Human Nature in Politics: The Dialogue of Psychology with Political Science," American Political Science Review, Cambridge University Press, vol. 79(2), pages 293-304, June.
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    Cited by:

    1. Maria Cleofe Giorgino & Federico Barnabè & Martin Kunc, 2020. "Integrating qualitative system dynamics with accounting practices: The case of integrated reporting and resource mapping," Systems Research and Behavioral Science, Wiley Blackwell, vol. 37(1), pages 97-118, January.
    2. Etienne Rouwette & Ingrid Bastings & Hans Blokker, 2011. "A Comparison of Group Model Building and Strategic Options Development and Analysis," Group Decision and Negotiation, Springer, vol. 20(6), pages 781-803, November.
    3. Mingers, John & White, Leroy, 2010. "A review of the recent contribution of systems thinking to operational research and management science," European Journal of Operational Research, Elsevier, vol. 207(3), pages 1147-1161, December.
    4. D Champion & J M Wilson, 2010. "The impact of contingency factors on validation of problem structuring methods," Journal of the Operational Research Society, Palgrave Macmillan;The OR Society, vol. 61(9), pages 1420-1431, September.

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