Soft Systems Methodology (SSM) as an approach to the safety management of nuclear facilities: a case report

This study lays the groundwork for a comprehensive exploration of SSM's application in the context of nuclear facility safety. By combining theoretical underpinnings with practical insights, the GASSST group contributes valuable perspectives to the ongoing discourse on SSM's efficacy in addressing complex organizational challenges. The subsequent sections of this study delve into the intricacies of the application process, challenges faced, and the lessons learned, offering a holistic view of the GASSST group's engagement with Soft Systems Methodology. Furthermore, this study endeavors to provide a bridge between the theoretical richness of SSM, as articulated by Checkland and other scholars, and the real-world application within the complex landscape of nuclear facility safety. SSM's theoretical foundation, rooted in the understanding of systems as human activity systems, aligns with the intricate dynamics inherent in safety management within nuclear institutions. The GASSST group seeks to navigate this convergence by not only drawing from established SSM principles but also by unraveling the practical implications and challenges encountered during their application. As organizations grapple with multifaceted issues influenced by both technical and human factors, the fusion of theory and application becomes paramount in crafting effective methodologies for systemic problem-solving. This study, therefore, serves as a crucial juncture in illuminating the symbiotic relationship between SSM theory and its pragmatic utility in addressing the complex organizational intricacies of nuclear safety. (author)