Theoretical study of the planning process is the subject of other
courses (e.g., Structured Planning and Information Structuring).
In the Systems and Systematic Design course, the process
is applied practically. Work proceeds in the following six
segments generally, although adaptations can be made to
any or all to fit the special needs of the project:
Metaplanning.
From an initial project statement, research
and discussion are undertaken to understand the context
of the problem, establish resources, customize planning
methodology and establish major issues. This results in
a refined project charter (see next section) and a schedule
for the planning activity.
Project Definition.
From the project charter and a list of issues
it suggests, research focuses on the interpretation of the
issues and the ways they can be resolved. Arguable positions
are sought that can become goals for the project-- directions
for the planning work to follow. All information is incorporated
in Defining Statement documents (see Appendix). Through
them, positions on the issues are expressed, background
information is presented, and arguments are made for the
position suggested vs. other possible positions.
Information Development.
A technique called Action Analysis is employed
to uncover Functions (what the system must do), to discover
Design Factors (insights about the behavior of users and
the system), and to invent Solution Elements (tentative
solution ideas).
Information Structuring.
Computer programs (RELATN and VTCON) are
used to organize the Functions for concept development.
The structuring is hierarchical, its result an Information
Structure relating those Functions that ought to be considered
together. Because the insights of the Design Factors are
associated automatically with the Functions, the planning
team can access related problems, insights and ideas organized
for design to verify ideas as they are developed.
Concept Development.
Working with the Information Structure as
guide for ideation and evaluation, the team selects, modifies,
extends or creates new concepts to cover the Functions necessary
to the system under design. Using one or more creative support
techniques, the process moves from highly verbal descriptions
supported with rough sketches and diagrams to more defined
studies and, finally, to formal presentations of ideas as
System Elements of an overall plan.
Communication.
A detailed write-up of the System Elements
of the plan is augmented with an Overview and illustrations
of important aspects of key ideas. Illustrations are produced
with computer visualization software that allows realistic
2-D and 3-D illustrations to be made of important ideas
where appropriate.
