Defining a System

A collection of components that work together to realize some objectives forms a system.

            In other words, a system is a set of interacting elements, interacting with each other to achieve a predetermined objective or goal.

            In a system the different components are connected with each other and they are interdependent. For example, human body represents a complete natural system. We are also bound by many national systems such as political system, economic system, educational system and so forth. The objective of the system demands that some output is produced as a result of processing the suitable inputs. A well-designed system also includes an additional element referred to as ‘control’ that provides a feedback to achieve desired objectives of the system.

            Basically there are three major components in every system, namely input, processing and output.

i) Input:–  It includes, Capturing/accepting and assembling components that enter the system to be      processed. Example: raw data, raw material etc.

ii) Processing:– Process is the series of changes to be done on information, to convert input into output.

iii) Output:– Output is produced by the transformation process to their ultimate destination. Example: reports, finished products etc.

Characteristics of a system:

·     Every system has a certain objectives and goals.

·         Main system has a several subsystems or models.
·         The lifecycle of the system is expression of the phases in the alive usage life of the system.
·         System operates in the terms of goals and predetermined scope.
·         Systems in real life do not operate in isolation.

Types of systems are:

a)    Physical Systems, such as man, weapons etc.
b)    Abstract Systems, such as god, nature etc.
c)    Open Systems, such as man
d)    Closed Systems, such as chemical process.
e)    Probabilistic Systems, such as arrival pattern, class etc.
f)     Man-Machine Systems, such as aero plane.