1.

Because the primary use of SSM revolves around the analysis of complex situations, with
differing views on the definition of the problem. SSM can intervene in such situations by making
discussion between all parties involved possible. This makes it possible to reach a consensus,
which can please all parties involved.
2. There are 7 steps of SSM which is:
a. Understanding the problem situation which problem situations considered problematic.
The main thing about this part is to explore multiple viewpoints by inquiring process. We
can use 5 properties of system to be a basis of inquiry of problem understanding
(Boundaries, Emergence Property, Purpose, Feedback, and Dimension)
b. Understanding the problem situation which problem situations expressed. We can
define situations by using visual tools such as Rich Picture. In this visual, it must contain
enough elements of structure, process, atmosphere, human, issue (human expressed),
and conflict. Rich picture should show the following aspect of problem situations:
structure, process, how structure and process interact, facts and opinion, social roles,
context, and facilitator.
c. Root definition of relevant purposeful activity system. On this step, we must define the
system by certain format which is CATWOE (Customer, Actors, Transformation,
Worldview, Owner, and Environment). A owned system, which within the following
environmental constraints which it takes as given transform this input into this output by
means of the following process/activities, the transform being carried out by these
actors and directly effecting the beneficiaries or customers or victims under the
worldview which makes this transformation meaningful contains at least the following
elements among others.
d. Model development which builds conceptual model of the system (holons) named in
the root definitions. This step is to model the relevant systems described in the root
definitions. The model should show transformation activities with input and output and
feedback loops. Transformation process to be properly formulated its input and output
must be of the same kind (tangible or intangible).
e. Developing Actions to solve the problems by comparing models and real world by trial
a real-world model with conceptual model. This done by several ways which is creating a
general discussion and observation, generate questions, reconstruct historical, and
model overlay.
f. Developing Actions to creating changes Systematically desirable, culturally feasible. Use
iteration to find solutions with highest impact. There are several approaches which are
CATWOE remodel, system dynamics, etc. Also, there are 3 types of filter which is owner
analysis, social system analysis, and political analysis.
g. Developing Actions to make action to improve the problem situation. This is the end of
the cycle and also the initial of the cycle.
3. Here are the differences:

Rich Picture Causal Loop Diagrams

Purpose Usually hand-drawn or graphic Structured tools to model the
representations of a problem situation. relationships between different elements
Used to capture the richness and of a system. They help identify feedback
diversity of stakeholders' perceptions loops, causal relationships, and polarity.
 and understandings of the system
Context Must contain enough elements of
structure, process, atmosphere, human,
issue (human expressed), and conflict.
System Flexible and can be created by
Understanding individuals or groups. They allow for a
creative and open exploration of the
problem space.
Nodes represent variables, arrows
represent the causal relationships
between these variables, and polarity to
know the feedback loops (reinforcing or
balancing).
Provide a deeper understanding of how
various factors in a system interact over
time

4. Root definition is a step to understand a system in a mannered format. Just like a tree, each root
has its own function, and it is hidden from our visual. Therefore, we must reconstruct the
original system purpose by simple definition of “A system to do X by Y to achieve Z”. Basic and
concise representation of definitions, we explain or clarify using Systems’ Element of CATWOE.
CATWOE is a complete explanation to understand the roots because it includes every dimension
which is Customer, Actors, Transformation, Worldview, Owner, and Environment. CATWOE
(together with the defined meanings of its elements) is used as a test of the structure and words
used in RD. Once consistency between the CATWOE elements and the words used in the RD has
been achieved, CATWOE has served its purpose, can be eliminated and has no further relevance
to the construction of CM.
5. The main difference between problem-solving in quality improvement and improvement as-a-
system based on its scope, approach, and goals. In quality improvement, problem-solving often
involves talking about specific issues in a particular process or step. Improvement as-a-system
takes a helicopter view, it goes further than talking about specific issues but rather focuses on
continuous improvement throughout the entire organization. The problem-solving approach in
quality improvement is systematic but in improvement as-a-system emphasizes organization as
an interconnected and interdependent system. The primary goal of problem-solving in quality
improvement is to optimize processes to meet quality standards, but in improvement as-a-
system understand that improvement is an ongoing process rather a series problem-solving.
6. Because monitoring often used as an information gathering process of the system to understand
how well the performance of the system and should be any changes or improvements in the
future. It is also important to develop a rich picture of problem situations to find out existing
issues, their weaknesses/threat, and the opportunities it may hold. We also need controlling
because it is a corrective action based on our monitoring information. It contributes to the
development of feasibility changes so it can be implemented to the system.
7. Three Interesting:
a. There are 7 Steps for SSM which is: problem situations considered problematic, problem
situations expressed, root definition of relevant purposeful activity system, conceptual
model of the system (holons) named in the root definitions, solve the problems by
comparing models and real world, and creating changes Systematically desirable,
culturally feasible.
b. CATWOE is one of the elements needed to test a structure in Root Definition. It includes
Customer, Actors, Transformation, Worldview, Owner, and Environment.
 c. There are 6 steps to make a CM: Identify/clarify customer needs, Find out how to meet
needs, Obtain Resources, Organise resources/provide amenities, Clarify legal constraint,
comply with legal constraints. We must monitor and control every steps.
8. Questions:
a. How does SSM differ from other problem-solving methodologies, such as Six Sigma or
Lean?
b. How does CATWOE contribute to the development of rich pictures in SSM?