Farm System 1

Comparison of Hard and Soft Systems Thinking and the
circumstances where the two System Thinking may overlap:
It is necessary to know why Checkland developed two different systems.

According to Checkland (1996, p. 190), “The main difference between
‘hard’ and ‘soft’ approaches is that where the former can start by asking
‘What system has to be engineered to solve this problem?’ or ‘What
system will meet this need?’ and can take the problem or the need as
given.” In case of Soft System methodology, there is a comparison
stage, which has no equivalent in the Hard System methodology. In
comparison stage, soft system thinking provides a structure for a debate
about change which hopefully ensures superior quality as a result of the
insight captured in the root definitions. On the other hand, hard system
thinking is always busy preparing to implement the designed system.
Moreover, Soft system thinking is considered for the general case
and hard system thinking is considered for special cases. Soft system
thinking improves the conceptual model using the formal system model
and other systems thinking. On the other hand, hard system optimizes
the design, using the defined performance criterion and select the
alternative which best meets the need and is feasible. In case of soft
system thinking, when problem is not clear, it requires an additional
stage which uses system analysis as a mean of orchestrating debate
about change. This additional stage is a reflection of the main
characteristic of human activity system. However, the human activity
can never be described in a single account which will be either generally
acceptable or sufficient in case of hard system. Moreover, soft system
implements the agreed system and hard system implement the
designed system. (Copeland, 1996). The following table 1 compares the
author’s approach with both the RAND corporation (1950) version of
system analysis and the account given by Jenkins (1969) from which the
hard system started.
Table 1:
illustration not visible in this excerpt

Source: Checkland P., (1996), Systems thinking, systems practice,
Chichester: Wiley
According to Zexian and Xuhu (2010), the main difference lies between
the hard system and soft system is the interpretation of the concept of
system. Hard systems thinking consider the system as an objective
part of the world. On the other hand, Soft Systems Thinking considers
system as epistemological concept, which is subjectively constructed
by people rather the objective entities in the world (appendix 5). Hard
Systems Thinking presumes that a system should have a good structure
and a specific goal. Soft Systems Thinking considers these difficulties
and employs another strategy to deal with human affairs. Moreover,
Hard system thinking assumes that there are problems and people
have enough ability to deal with them. However, Soft system
thinking believes that the interaction and interdependence between
the observer and observed object build a problematic situation
because the observer is involved in the observed situation (Zexian
and Xuhui, 2010). After comparing the hard and soft system, “it is clear
that SST achieves a paradigm shift which makes applied system
thinking change from ‘hard’ approach to ‘soft’ approach” .(Zexian
and Xuhui, 20
Soft Systems Thinking:
1. Assumptions: Soft Systems Thinking recognizes that the real world is

uncertain, subjective, and rich in diverse perspectives. It acknowledges
that complex problems are often ill-defined and involve human actors,
values, and social considerations.
2. Methodology: Soft Systems Thinking emphasizes learning, dialogue,

and qualitative research methods. It involves engaging stakeholders,
developing different viewpoints, and exploring multiple perspectives on
the problem. Techniques such as Rich Pictures, Root Definition, and
Conceptual Models are used to understand and explore social systems.
3. Example: Soft Systems Thinking can be applied to address a complex
social issue like poverty. Rather than offering a single solution, it
involves engaging with different stakeholders, understanding various
dimensions of poverty, exploring underlying systemic issues, and co-
creating potential interventions with the community.
Hard Systems Thinking:
1. Assumptions: Hard Systems Thinking assumes that the world is

objective, deterministic, and can be systematically analyzed. It aims to
uncover clear problem statements, identify specific objectives, and find
optimal solutions based on scientific analysis and quantifiable
measures.
2. Methodology: Hard Systems Thinking relies on scientific

methodologies and quantitative research methods. It involves defining
the problem, modeling the system using formal notations, applying
optimization techniques, and making objective decisions based on
analysis.
3. Example: Hard Systems Thinking can be used in manufacturing

industries to optimize production processes. It involves identifying the
inputs, outputs, and constraints of the system, developing mathematical
models to represent the processes, using quantitative methods like linear
programming to optimize resource allocation, and selecting the most
efficient production plan.
In essence, Soft Systems Thinking is more qualitative and emphasizes

the social, cultural, and human aspects of complex problems, while Hard
Systems Thinking is more quantitative and focuses on finding optimal
solutions within well-defined problem boundaries.
It's important to note that Soft Systems Thinking and Hard Systems
Thinking are not mutually exclusive but rather represent different
approaches to tackle different aspects of complexity. They can be used
in combination or separately depending on the nature of the problem and
the desired outcomes.
ChatGPT4 | Midjourney, [11/1/2023 10:46 PM]
Sure! Here are 40 multiple-choice questions with answers on hard

systems thinking, soft systems thinking, farming systems, and livelihood
analysis:
Hard Systems Thinking:
1. Which approach does hard systems thinking primarily focus on?
a) Quantitative analysis and mathematical modeling
b) Qualitative analysis and social context
c) Ethical considerations and subjective perspectives
d) Cultural aspects and historical analysis
- Answer: a) Quantitative analysis and mathematical modeling
2. What is a characteristic of hard systems thinking?
a) Emphasis on flexibility and adaptability
b) Acknowledgment of multiple perspectives
c) Use of well-defined rules and procedures
d) Promotion of creative solutions

- Answer: c) Use of well-defined rules and procedures
3. What type of problems are best addressed by hard systems thinking?
a) Complex and unstructured problems
b) Problems with high ambiguity and uncertainty
c) Problems involving human behavior and cultural influences
d) Problems that require creative and innovative approaches
- Answer: a) Complex and unstructured problems
4. What is the primary purpose of hard systems thinking?
a) Understanding and analyzing complex, dynamic systems
b) Appreciating subjective experiences and perspectives
c) Identifying ethical and moral considerations in decision-making
d) Embracing the diversity and uniqueness of human societies
- Answer: a) Understanding and analyzing complex, dynamic systems
Soft Systems Thinking:
5. What is the focus of soft systems thinking?
a) Quantitative analysis and numerical data
b) Qualitative understanding and social context

c) Logical reasoning and deductive approaches
d) Technological advancements and automation
- Answer: b) Qualitative understanding and social context
6. Which tool is commonly used in soft systems thinking?
a) Decision trees
b) Fishbone diagrams
c) Statistical analysis
d) Game theory
- Answer: b) Fishbone diagrams
7. When is soft systems thinking most appropriate?
a) When the problem is well-structured with clear objectives
b) When there is a need to address social and cultural factors
c) When the problem requires mathematical modeling and analysis
d) When the problem is abstract and lacks real-world applications
- Answer: b) When there is a need to address social and cultural

factors
8. What is the aim of soft systems thinking?

a) Developing efficient algorithms and computational models
b) Understanding and improving the quality of human

interactions
c) Encouraging innovative and creative solutions
d) Minimizing risks and uncertainties in decision-making
- Answer: b) Understanding and improving the quality of human

interactions
Farming Systems:
9. What is a farming system?
a) The integration of crops and livestock within an agricultural

context
b) The use of advanced technologies in modern farming practices
c) The adoption of organic farming practices
d) The mechanization and automation of agricultural processes
- Answer: a) The integration of crops and livestock within an

agricultural context
10. Which is a characteristic of sustainable farming systems?
a) Excessive use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides
b) High dependence on fossil fuels and non-renewable resources
c) Consideration of ecological, economic, and social aspects

d) Intensive monocropping and single-species livestock farming
- Answer: c) Consideration of ecological, economic, and social

aspects
11. What does farming system analysis involve?
a) Evaluating the profitability of agricultural practices
b) Assessing the environmental impacts of farming activities
c) Analyzing the social and cultural dimensions of farming

communities
d) All of the above
- Answer: d) All of the above
12. What is the goal of farming system analysis?
a) Maximizing crop yields at any cost
b) Optimizing resource allocation and minimizing waste
c) Promoting self-sufficiency and minimizing external inputs
d) Preserving traditional farming practices and cultural heritage
- Answer: b) Optimizing resource allocation and minimizing waste
Livelihood Analysis:
13. What is livelihood analysis?

a) A method for evaluating the financial stability of farming systems
b) An approach to assess the physical health and well-being of

farmers
c) An analysis of the assets, activities, and capabilities of

individuals and households
d) A study of the economic impacts of climate change on rural

communities
- Answer: c) An analysis of the assets, activities, and capabilities of

individuals and households
14. Which is a component of livelihood analysis?
a) Environmental sustainability
b) Gender equality
c) Access to healthcare
d) All of the above
15. What is the aim of livelihood analysis?
a) Identifying and addressing the root causes of poverty in rural areas
b) Promoting industrialization and urbanization in agricultural regions
c) Improving the efficiency of agricultural production systems
d) Preserving traditional livelihood practices and cultural heritage

- Answer: a) Identifying and addressing the root causes of poverty in
rural areas
16. How can livelihood analysis inform decision-making?
a) Policy interventions and development programs
b) Financial investment strategies in the agriculture sector
c) Technological advancements in farming practices
d) All of the above
I hope these questions help you in understanding hard systems thinking,

soft systems thinking, farming systems, and livelihood analysis. If you
have any more questions or need further explanation, feel free to ask!
1. Which type of thinking recognizes the subjective and uncertain

nature of agricultural systems?
a) Hard System Thinking
b) Soft System Thinking
Answer: b) Soft System Thinking
2. Which approach emphasizes the use of quantitative methods and

optimization techniques?

Answer: a) Hard System Thinking
3. Which perspective focuses on understanding the whole system as a

holistic entity?
a) Soft System Thinking
b) Hard System Thinking
Answer: a) Soft System Thinking
4. Which component of systems thinking emphasizes the complex

interrelationships within a farm system?
a) Interconnections
b) Emergence
Answer: a) Interconnections
5. Which perspective recognizes that the system's behavior cannot be

predicted by examining individual components in isolation?

6. Which thinking approach involves engaging stakeholders and
incorporating multiple perspectives?
7. Which method involves the use of qualitative research techniques

such as Rich Pictures and Conceptual Models?
8. Which thinking approach is more suitable for addressing complex

social issues in livelihood analysis?
9. Which approach aims to find optimal solutions based on scientific

analysis and quantifiable measures?

Answer: b) Hard System Thinking
10. Which perspective focuses on the dynamic relationships and

feedback loops within a farm system?
a) Feedback Perspective
b) Emergence Perspective
Answer: a) Feedback Perspective
11. Which thinking approach is more useful when analyzing market

dynamics and value chains?
12. Which component of systems thinking emphasizes the temporal

aspect and non-linear behaviors of a farm system?
a) Time and Dynamics
b) Interconnections
Answer: a) Time and Dynamics
13. Which approach recognizes the value of local knowledge and the
involvement of farmers in decision-making?
14. Which thinking approach is more quantitative and focused on

finding optimal solutions within well-defined problem boundaries?
15. Which component of systems thinking emphasizes the importance of

considering the broader context in which a farm system operates?
a) Contextual Perspective
Answer: a) Contextual Perspective
1. Which thinking approach acknowledges that agricultural systems are

uncertain and subjective?

2. Which perspective emphasizes the need to consider the social,
economic, and environmental dimensions of a farm system?
a) Contextual Perspective
Answer: a) Contextual Perspective
3. Which method involves the use of mathematical models and

optimization techniques?
4. Which component of systems thinking focuses on the emergence of

new properties or behaviors in a farm system?
a) Emergence
b) Feedback Perspective
Answer: a) Emergence
5. Which approach recognizes that different stakeholders may have

diverse views and interests in farm system analysis?

6. Which perspective emphasizes the understanding of the entire farm

system as a whole?
7. Which component of systems thinking emphasizes the dynamic nature

and temporal aspects of a farm system?
a) Time and Dynamics
Answer: a) Time and Dynamics
8. Which method involves engaging farmers in participatory research

and problem-solving?

9. Which thinking approach is more suitable for understanding the social
complexities of farming communities?
10. Which perspective focuses on the interactions and relationships

between different elements within a farm system?
a) Interconnections
11. Which approach emphasizes logical and evidence-based reasoning in

farm system analysis?
Answer: b) Hard System Thinking
12. Which component of systems thinking recognizes that changes in

one part of the farm system can have ripple effects on other
components?
a) Interconnections
13. Which thinking approach emphasizes the importance of

incorporating local knowledge and expertise?
14. Which perspective recognizes that the whole farm system cannot be
fully understood by examining individual components in isolation?
15. Which thinking approach is more effective for analyzing complex

social and economic issues in farm system analysis?

16. Which component of systems thinking focuses on the flows and
feedback mechanisms within a farm system?
a) Feedback Perspective
b) Contextual Perspective
Answer: a) Feedback Perspective
17. Which perspective emphasizes the need to adapt and innovate to

changing farm system dynamics?
18. Which thinking approach recognizes the need to involve multiple

stakeholders in decision-making processes?
19. Which component of systems thinking emphasizes the need for

collaboration and knowledge exchange among different disciplines in
farm system analysis?
a) Interconnections
b) Contextual Perspective
20. Which perspective focuses on understanding the behavior and

properties of a farm system as a result of the interactions and
relationships between system
a) Emergence Perspective
Answer: a) Emergence Perspective
5 Advantages of Green Revolution

Reduces greenhouse gas emission: As the high yield
methodology influences the carbon cycles via the atmosphere, it
vastly reduces greenhouse gas emissions and emissions-free
environments.
Increase in food production: It uses various technologies and

results in an increase in food production. It is a choice from the
conventional method of agriculture.
Low food prices: The whole market relies on the demand and
supply process. As the yields are continuous, they meet the
demand, and the supply becomes easy. High-yield varieties
produce more food items and lower the food prices for all
consumers globally.
Increases Afforestation: As the demand for food increases,
deforestation also increases. Thus, introducing a green revolution
meets food needs and increases afforestation.
Continuous Yield: It also offers a constant yield of crops

irrespective of seasons.
5 Disadvantages of Green Revolution

1. Quality of Soil: It encounters and reduces soil quality because
the repetitive usage of the same crops on the land results in soil
nutrient depletion.
2. Health problems: Consuming foods produced using pesticides

and fertilisers will significantly impact health-related issues.
3. Lack of biodiversity: Creates more significant exposure to the

food chain and leads to the loss of beneficial hereditary attributes
produced in conventional farming.
4. Seed Sterility: Introducing new technologies leads to the

prevention of future crop growth by composing seeds from mature
plants.
5. Monocropping: Green revolution promotes monocropping

patterns, which causes various problems and reduces the
production of high yield crops.
6. Top-down approach: this in turn affects participation of

farmers.
Advantages of the Transfer of Technology Approach:
1. Improved Productivity: TOT can lead to increased agricultural

productivity by introducing new techniques, technologies, and
practices. Small farmers can benefit from improved crop varieties,
mechanization, irrigation methods, and sustainable farming
practices. This can enhance yield, reduce crop losses, and
improve overall profitability.
2. Knowledge and Skill Enhancement: TOT provides small

farmers with access to new knowledge, skills, and information.
Training programs, workshops, and demonstration plots can help
farmers acquire technical know-how and learn best practices.
This capacity building aspect empowers farmers to make
informed decisions, adapt to changing conditions, and adopt
innovative approaches to improve their farming systems.
3. Market Access and Value Addition: TOT initiatives can help

small farmers gain better market access and enhance value
addition. Through technological advancements, farmers can
produce higher-quality crops, optimize post-harvest processes,
and adopt value-added activities such as processing, packaging,
and marketing. Access to markets and value chains can increase
farmers' income and improve their livelihoods.
4. Resilience and Adaptation: TOT can enhance the resilience of

small farmers by introducing climate-smart techniques, water
management strategies, and integrated pest management
practices. By adopting sustainable and resilient farming systems,
farmers can better cope with climate change, variability, and
extreme weather events.
Disadvantages of the Transfer of Technology Approach:

1. Technological and Resource Requirements: Some TOT
initiatives may require technological infrastructure, capital, or
resources that small farmers may lack. For example, the adoption
of advanced machinery may be costly and beyond the means of
small-scale farmers. Limited access to finance and credit can
further hinder the implementation of new technologies.
2. Contextual Limitations: Technologies transferred through TOT

initiatives may not always be suitable or adaptable to the specific
agro-ecological conditions, local practices, or cultural contexts of
small farmers. Limited consideration of local contexts and
constraints can lead to low adoption rates or ineffective
implementation.
3. Dependency and Sustainability: TOT can create a dependency

on external expertise, resources, and inputs. If farmers rely
heavily on external support without developing local capacity or
resource networks, long-term sustainability may be compromised.
Lack of local ownership and adaptability can hinder the continued
success and relevance of the transferred technologies.
4. Social Equity and Gender Considerations: TOT initiatives

should ensure equitable access and benefits for all farmers,
including marginalized groups and women. Without considering
social dynamics, there is a risk that technology transfer could
reinforce existing inequalities or exclude certain groups. TOT
efforts should be inclusive and prioritize empowerment, gender
equality, and social equity.
5. Market Dynamics and Value Chains: Some TOT initiatives may
not adequately address the complex dynamics of markets, value
chains, and price volatility. Focusing solely on technology transfer
without considering broader market access, pricing mechanisms,
and value chain constraints can limit the economic impact and
viability of small farmers.
To overcome these disadvantages, TOT initiatives should be

context-specific, participatory, and tailored to the needs and
capacities of small farmers. Ensuring effective extension services,
promoting local innovation, strengthening farmer organizations,
and fostering inclusive approaches can enhance the positive
outcomes of TOT in small farms.
hat produces a hurricane, and yet NOAA scientists are using

more sophisticated mathematical tools to understand such a
system as it evolves, and make useful predictions about the
system's behavior.
The mathematical approach includes both dynamical (numerical)
and statistical models. One dynamical model is the deceptively
simple-looking logistic difference equation (Lorentz and Feller),
which is actually quite useful across disciplines for understanding
real-world dynamical systems that produce stunningly complex
behavior, including chaos. [There is a seminal paper that you can
read if you are interested in chaos: "Period Three Implies
Chaos" (Yorke, et al).]

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Comparison of Hard and Soft Systems Thinking and the

circumstances where the two System Thinking may overlap:

It is necessary to know why Checkland developed two different systems.

illustration not visible in this excerpt

Soft Systems Thinking:

1. Assumptions: Soft Systems Thinking recognizes that the real world is

2. Methodology: Soft Systems Thinking emphasizes learning, dialogue,

Hard Systems Thinking:

1. Assumptions: Hard Systems Thinking assumes that the world is

2. Methodology: Hard Systems Thinking relies on scientific

3. Example: Hard Systems Thinking can be used in manufacturing

In essence, Soft Systems Thinking is more qualitative and emphasizes

ChatGPT4 | Midjourney, [11/1/2023 10:46 PM]

Sure! Here are 40 multiple-choice questions with answers on hard

Hard Systems Thinking:

1. Which approach does hard systems thinking primarily focus on?

a) Quantitative analysis and mathematical modeling

b) Qualitative analysis and social context

c) Ethical considerations and subjective perspectives

d) Cultural aspects and historical analysis

- Answer: a) Quantitative analysis and mathematical modeling

2. What is a characteristic of hard systems thinking?

a) Emphasis on flexibility and adaptability

b) Acknowledgment of multiple perspectives

c) Use of well-defined rules and procedures

d) Promotion of creative solutions

3. What type of problems are best addressed by hard systems thinking?

a) Complex and unstructured problems

b) Problems with high ambiguity and uncertainty

c) Problems involving human behavior and cultural influences

d) Problems that require creative and innovative approaches

- Answer: a) Complex and unstructured problems

4. What is the primary purpose of hard systems thinking?

a) Understanding and analyzing complex, dynamic systems

b) Appreciating subjective experiences and perspectives

c) Identifying ethical and moral considerations in decision-making

d) Embracing the diversity and uniqueness of human societies

- Answer: a) Understanding and analyzing complex, dynamic systems

Soft Systems Thinking:

5. What is the focus of soft systems thinking?

a) Quantitative analysis and numerical data

b) Qualitative understanding and social context

d) Technological advancements and automation

- Answer: b) Qualitative understanding and social context

6. Which tool is commonly used in soft systems thinking?

- Answer: b) Fishbone diagrams

7. When is soft systems thinking most appropriate?

a) When the problem is well-structured with clear objectives

b) When there is a need to address social and cultural factors

c) When the problem requires mathematical modeling and analysis

d) When the problem is abstract and lacks real-world applications

- Answer: b) When there is a need to address social and cultural

8. What is the aim of soft systems thinking?

b) Understanding and improving the quality of human

c) Encouraging innovative and creative solutions

d) Minimizing risks and uncertainties in decision-making

- Answer: b) Understanding and improving the quality of human

9. What is a farming system?

a) The integration of crops and livestock within an agricultural

b) The use of advanced technologies in modern farming practices

c) The adoption of organic farming practices

d) The mechanization and automation of agricultural processes