Participatory Systems Analysis

For analysts in the discipline of Management Information Systems intent on increasing the level of understanding by users of critical information system concepts, utilization of the traditional structured systems analysis approach is the norm. A preliminary investigation followed by a feasibility analysis, identification of alternative solutions and general systems design are the normal activities that take place. Frequent interactions by analysts with the end-user and/or system requestor take place primarily on a scheduled basis with the analysts’ presenting their findings and recommendations. Interviews, documentation, observation and questionnaires are the primary vehicles for data collection by the analyst. However, analysts and their clients are often In an adversarial relationship because of the mystery of technology, because of the feeling that the analyst does not really understand the issues the end-user is facing or because the client does not know what he/she wants want he/she knows they want something better. This paper presents a research framework to compare traditional and participatory approaches to systems analysis using a process oriented analytical procedure