Applications of Methodology (Both Hard and Soft): Introduction

Abstract

We have expectations nowadays at any conference on systems thinking. There should be innovative developments on the theoretical front. Recent evidence shows that at last systems thinking has worked out credible intellectual foundations, as underlined in the section ‘Problem Structuring and Critical Systems Thinking’. Another expectation, however, is for clear accounts of how theoretical developments lead to ever more “revolutionary” intervention. There is a link between the two expectations. This is particularly the case for systems thinking because it is traditionally practice driven where other disciplines are not. Papers in this section therefore must be read in the light of both expectations.