Part A Answer All Questions Question 111 Define The Term Sys

Part A Answer All Questionsquestion 111 Define The Term Systemsi

Part A: Answer all questions Question .1 Define the term 'systems'. Illustrate your answer with a diagram and a practical example. (.2) Identify and describe the different ways in which systems can be classified. (10) {15}

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The term "systems" refers to a collection of interrelated components or elements that work together to achieve a common goal or purpose. Systems can be tangible, such as a computer system, or intangible, like a management system. Diagrammatically, a system can be represented as a set of elements connected through processes that facilitate input, processing, output, and feedback. A practical example of a system is an enterprise resource planning (ERP) system used by a manufacturing company to coordinate various business processes such as procurement, inventory management, and payroll.

Systems can be classified in several ways based on different criteria. First, based on nature, systems can be physical (hardware) or conceptual (software or ideas). Second, according to their scope, they may be open systems interacting with their environment or closed systems with no external interactions. Third, based on functionality, systems can be manual or automated, with automated systems employing technological tools for processing. Fourth, the level of complexity can serve as a basis, with simple or complex systems. Lastly, systems are often categorized according to their purpose, such as informational, control, or decision-support systems.

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Understanding the concept of systems is crucial in the analysis and design of organized structures, whether in technology, business, or natural environments. A system is fundamentally a set of components that work collectively to fulfill a specific function. These components may include hardware, software, personnel, procedures, and data, interconnected through relationships that enable the system to operate effectively. The purpose of a system is to transform inputs into outputs efficiently while maintaining stability, adaptability, and performance.

Illustrating with a diagram, a typical system can be shown as a flowchart or schematic where inputs such as raw materials, data, or energy enter the system. These inputs are processed through various components, such as processing units or subsystems, which transform them according to specified rules or procedures. The output, which could be a finished product or information, is then delivered. Feedback mechanisms provide information from the output back to the input or processing stage to facilitate control and continuous improvement.

A practical example is an online banking system, which integrates various components like user interfaces, transaction processing units, databases, and security protocols to provide banking services. Customers input requests through web interfaces, which are processed by secure servers and databases before responses are communicated back, ensuring efficient and secure banking operations.

Classifying systems is essential for understanding their structure, complexity, and purpose. Physical systems include tangible devices like computers and automobiles. Conceptual systems encompass software applications and management approaches. Open systems interact with their environment, exchanging information or materials, whereas closed systems are isolated or self-contained. Manual systems rely on human effort, whereas automated systems incorporate technology and machinery. Systems can also be categorized by their complexity, from simple linear systems to complex adaptive systems that evolve over time. Functionally, systems serve as information systems, control systems, or decision support systems, depending on their primary purposes.

References

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