Universal Systems Model
Systems thinking is a technique for looking at a problem in it entirety, looking at the system, as many distinct parts or components put together into one whole. Systems oriented thinking takes into account all the variables and related social and technological characteristics. When analyzing any technological products or systems one my utilize the Universal systems model to break the product or system down into its basic form.
Everything around us is made up of systems and subsystems. The subsystems are the individual parts that work together to create a systems. In a television studio, the video cameras, teleprompter, video mixers, sound mixers, computers, and various other equipment are subsystems. When you put this equipment together you form a system (TV studio).
Technology is a total system composed of many elements and subsystems, each critical to the functioning of the whole. The main subsystems of technology are medical technologies, bio-related technologies, energy & power technologies, information and communication technologies, transportation technologies, manufacturing technologies, and construction technologies.
Systems - are a group of interacting, interrelated, or interdependent elements or parts that function together as a whole to accomplish a goal.
Subsystems - are a division of a system that, in itself, has the characteristics of a system.
