Definition of a System

Definition of a System

Studying a system becomes more meaningful when one first understands what a system actually is. The concept of a system is best introduced through its definition, as it plays a crucial role in the approach used to study it.

In general, a system consists of structure and processes. Several definitions describe a system as being composed of both structure and processes. However, some definitions refer only to a collection of structures or only to a collection of processes.

A system defined as a collection of structures does not mean it lacks processes. Such a system still includes processes, but its structure is considered more dominant and emphasized. This type of system is referred to as a physical system. On the other hand, some definitions describe a system as a collection of processes. While these systems also have structure, it is the processes that are emphasized. Systems in which processes are more dominant than structure are known as procedural systems.

The structure of a system is also referred to by other terms such as components, subsystems, elements, or building blocks. Below are examples of system definitions that emphasize structure, elements, or components:

1. A system is a unified whole consisting of interacting subsystems that aim to achieve a common goal (Moscove and Simkin, 1984).

2. A system operates and interacts with its environment to achieve specific objectives. It demonstrates behavior through interactions among its components and with its environment (Wu, 1984).

3. A system is a collection of components that interact to form a unified and complex whole at a certain level to pursue a common purpose (Nash and Roberts, 1984).

4. A system is an interaction of components operating within system boundaries. These boundaries filter the type and flow of input and output between the system and its environment (Hicks Jr. and Leininger, 1986).

5. A system is a collection of parts arranged and interacting together to perform a function (Blissmer, 1985).

Other system definitions emphasize the collection of processes. The processes within a system are also referred to as cycles or procedures. The systems approach that focuses on procedures highlights the sequences of operations carried out within the system. Procedures are defined by Fitz Gerald et al. (1984) as precise sequences of interaction steps that describe what needs to be done, who performs the task, when it is done, and how it is to be executed.

So, which definition should be used? Is a system a collection of components, or is it a collection of processes? For physical systems, which consist of many physical components, the component-based approach is more appropriate. For procedural systems, which consist primarily of processes, the procedure-based approach is more suitable.

When studying management information systems, which are physical in nature, the component-based approach is more effective. This approach is also more appropriate when analyzing and designing information systems. To analyze and design a system effectively, one must first understand the system’s components, elements, or subsystems.

Reference :

• Jogiyanto 2023, Management Information Systems