Definition
A system analysis is generally understood to be the systematic investigation and evaluation of a system. In this practically applicable method of system theory, a model of the system is initially depicted as a black box and refined by permanently adding relevant elements. The resulting model is - especially in the case of complex systems - usually an abstracted and therefore incomplete representation of reality. Nevertheless, it is possible to make statements about past and future developments and behaviour of the system in certain scenarios on this basis.
In the operational context, system analysis is the study and evaluation of a workflow or job in order to find and introduce more efficient methods, usually by using computers. In this context, systems analysis is carried out in three steps: establishing a formulation of objectives, determining the methods by which these objectives can be achieved in the most efficient and cost-effective manner, and preparing a feasibility study.
Bettina Dirks
