An Example of an Artificial System An automobile is an example of an artificial system that is familiar to

most of us and that satisfies the definition of a system provided previously. To simplify matters, let’s
assume that the automobile system serves only one purpose: providing conveyance. To do so requires
the harmonious interaction of hundreds or even thousands of subsystems. For simplicity, Figure 1-2
depicts only a few of these. In the figure, two points are illustrated of particular importance to the study
of information systems: system decomposition and subsystem interdependency.

SYSTEM DECOMPOSITION. Decomposition is the process of dividing the system into smaller subsystem
parts. This is a convenient way of representing, viewing, and understanding the relationships among
subsystems. By decomposing a system, we can present the overall system as a hierarchy and view the
relationships between subordinate and higher-level subsystems. Each subordinate subsystem performs
one or more specific functions to help achieve the overall objective of the higher-level system. Figure 1-
2 shows an automobile decomposed into four primary subsystems: the fuel subsystem, the propulsion
subsystem, the electrical subsystem, and the braking subsystem. Each contributes in a unique way to the
system’s objective, conveyance. These second-level subsystems are decomposed further into two or
more subordinate subsystems at a third level. Each third-level subsystem performs a task in direct
support of its second-level system.

SUBSYSTEM INTERDEPENDENCY. A system’s ability to achieve its goal depends on the effective
functioning and harmonious interaction of its subsystems. If a vital subsystem fails or becomes defective
and can no longer meet its specific objective, the overall system will fail to meet its objective. For
example, if the fuel pump (a vital subsystem of the fuel system) fails, then the fuel system fails. With the
failure of the fuel system (a vital subsystem of the automobile), the entire system fails. On the other
hand, when a nonvital subsystem fails, the primary objective of the overall system can still be met. For
instance, if the radio (a subsystem of the electrical system) fails, the automobile can still convey
passengers