Systems: Analysis, administration, and architecture

John Sutherland offers a text to anyone who wants an introduction to applied systems science and general systems theory. It is specifically oriented towards those who are concerned to be corporate, political, or social actors and decision-makers, and those who provide a support function for them. The text is practical in orientation in the sense that it is devoted to developing an understanding and appreciation for how the systems sciences which fall within the general systems frame of reference can be brought to bear upon the realities of complex problem-solving, policy making and administrative control. As a student of general systems theory and cybernetics in an organization and management context, I know of no other text which can offer such a comprehensive and integrative treatment of and otherwise diverse and complex subject matter.