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(a) Define the following terms in relation to systems: (i.) Symbiosis;(ii.) Synergy; (iii.) Redundancy;(iv.) Factoring; (b) What is meant by 'hard' and 'soft' properties of...

a) Define the following terms in relation to
systems:
(i.) Symbiosis;
(ii.) Synergy;
(iii.) Redundancy;
(iv.) Factoring;
b) What is meant by 'hard' and 'soft' properties of system approach? Describe briefly two
features of each

Answers

gregory
a) (i) Symbiosis
A system is made up of subsystems. Symbiosis is a state where two systems operate as
one and if one ceases to exist, the other cannot function. This implies that there exists a
give and take type of relationship within the system. An example is where there is an
integrated sales and purchases system where if one system fails, then the system is
brought to a standstill.
(ii) Synergy
It‘s also known as holism. It states that in any system, it is possible to attain
more than if each of the subsystem worked individually. Synergy states that
?any whole is more than the sum of its individual parts.?
(iii) Redundancy
A redundant component within a system is said to exist if that component fails and the
system is still able to attain its objectives. Redundancy is said to occur when the whole
system continues to operate and attain its objectives even if one subsystem has ceased to
exist.
(iv) Factoring
This is the process of disintegrating a system into sub-system units. A large system can
be factored into subsystems to improve its performance. An example of factoring is in a
business organization where it is sub-divided into sales and purchasing system,
accounting system and others.
b) (i) „Hard ? properties
=Hard‘ properties are those properties that can be defined, measured and assessed in an
objective. Examples of =hard ‘ properties approach are things like increase in sales,
reduction in cost, etc
Characteristics:
o The problem can be defined.
o Information needs are known.
o The solution can be recognized once arrived at.
o Hard problems are object or things oriented.
o Standard solution technique.
o Data can be objectively assessed.
o Problems are self-contained.
(ii) „Soft? properties
=Soft properties‘ are those that are precise and matters of industrial values and tastes. Soft
properties are not measured accurately. They include things such as customer goodwill,
etc.
Characteristics:
o Problems are difficult to define.
o It is impossible to know information needed in advance.
o Unsure of what solution would look like.
o Problems are people oriented.
o These problems involve taste, value, opinion, judgement, etc.
o These problems have a lot of interaction e.g. motivation, satisfaction, affiliation
needs, beauty, etc.
gregorymasila answered the question on February 15, 2018 at 17:29

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