SATM 5.1 Introduction of Applied Systems Thinking

Inevitably the discussion is in terms of systems methodology. Methodology look at the principles behind the use of models, methods, tools and techniques to provide understanding and, usually in the case of systems thinking, to bring about change.
The two dimensions of the "system of systems methodologies" are employed to reveal the transformations that have had to occur in the way systems ideas are conceived, and are used, in order that these ideas can be of maximum benefit to decision-makers and problem-solvers.

These revolutions in methodology can be linked, through these dimensions, back to social theory and the need for systems thinking to escape its original functionalist orientation before it could become of more general significance for practitioners.