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Introducing soft systems methodology plus (SSM+): why we need it and what it can contribute
Jeffrey Braithwaite1, Don Hindle, Rick Iedema
1Graduate Management Programs, Faculty of Medicine, University of New South Wales.
Summary
Soft Systems Methodology (SSM+) offers a structured approach to complex healthcare problems. This iterative framework promotes collaborative learning and redesign for effective technical and cultural solutions.
Area of Science:
- Healthcare Management
- Systems Thinking
- Problem Solving
Background:
- Healthcare systems face complex, persistent challenges.
- Previous solutions relied on political, economic, or managerial approaches.
- A systematic methodology for healthcare problem-solving is lacking.
Purpose of the Study:
- To introduce and evaluate Soft Systems Methodology, version plus (SSM+).
- To provide an iterative framework for systematic healthcare problem-solving.
- To emphasize collaborative learning and systems redesign.
Main Methods:
- Application of the SSM+ framework.
- Iterative, staged problem-solving process.
- Integration of technical and cultural considerations.
Main Results:
- SSM+ enhances healthcare problem-solving processes.
- The methodology facilitates collaborative learning.
- Systems redesign incorporating technical and cultural fixes is enabled.
Conclusions:
- SSM+ offers a systematic and effective approach to intractable healthcare issues.
- Collaborative learning and iterative redesign are key components of SSM+.
- This methodology improves the development of comprehensive solutions.