SOFT SYSTEMS METHODOLOGY IN MANAGEMENT PROBLEM SITUATIONS STRUCTURING

Soft Systems Methodology (SSM), as a relevant systemic approach to exploring contemporary management problem solving, is based on action research as a learning cycle. The application of SSM in management problem situations structuring enables the implementation of systemically desirable and culturally feasible changes which improve the particular problem situation. In this paper, the key theoretical and methodological features of SSM will be presented and some strenghts and weaknesses in the process of management problem situations structuring will be identified. It is about an interpretative systemic approach to management in which two questions are relevant: what should be investigated to reveal potential improvements and how the changes should be implemented to ensure desirable improvement in particular problem situation?

Key words: Management Problem Situations Structuring; Soft Systems Methodology; Action Research; Learning Cycle, Implementation of Systemically Desirable and Culturally Feasible Changes

JEL Classification: M10