11740 (v.2) Business Analysis Methodologies 501

Area:	School of Information Systems
Credits:	25.0
Contact Hours:	3.0
Lecture:	1 x 3 Hours Weekly
Syllabus:	The nature of problem structuring and problem situation improvement, positivist and interpretivist views of organisational problem solving, uncertainty, multiple and conflicting objectives in problem solving, detailed examination of some of the followingmethodologies - Soft Systems Methodologies (SSM), Strategic Options Development Analysis (SODA), Interactive Planning (IP), Strategic Assumption Surfacing and Testing (SAST), and Strategic Choice Methodology.

Unit Outcomes:	On successful completion of this unit students will have - Developed an appreciation of the notion that information systems (and associated activities such as ISP, ISD and so on) exist within complex, interconnected organisational contexts. Developed an understanding and knowledge of some of the major, contemporary organisational problem solving methodologies. Understanding and appreciation of choosing and using methods as a facilitator of business systems. Knowledge of the use of business methods withinthe context of organisational learning, awareness, knowledge management and business analysis. Developed an understanding of familiarity and skill with any supporting software of these methods (if applicable and subject to availability). Written development in journal writing with critical reflection on learning outcomes and processes.
Text and references listed above are for your information only and current as of September 30, 2003. Please check with the unit coordinator for up-to-date information.
Unit References:	Friend, J. and Hickling, A., (1990), Planning Under Pressure, London, Pergamon. Hughes, J., (1990), The Philosophy of Social Research, 2nd ed., Harlow, Longman. Davies, L. and Ledington, P., (1991). Information in Action - Soft Systems Methodology, Basingstoke, MacMillan. Tsoukas, H., (1994), New Thinking in Organisational Behaviour - From Social Engineering to Reflective Action, Oxford, Butterworth Heinemann. Wilson, B., (1984), Systems - Concepts, Methodologies and Applications, 2nd ed., Chichester, Wiley. Hitchins, D.K., (1992), Putting Systems to Work, Chichester, Wiley. Beishon, J. and Peters, G., (1976), Systems Behaviour, 2nd ed., London, Open University Press. Eden, C. and Radford, J., (1989), Tackling Strategic Problems - The Role of Group Decision Support, London, Sage. Huff, A.S., (1990), Mapping Strategic Thought, Chichester, Wiley.
Unit Texts:	No prescribed texts.

Unit Assessment Breakdown:	Examination 50%, Continuous Assessment 50%. This is done by grade/mark assessment.