Systems Analysis For Effective Administration

FOR EFFECTIVE ADMINISTRATION NORMAN N. BARIShL- Professor and Chairman of the Department of Industrial and Management Engineering New Yorfc University FUNK WAGNALLS COMPANY NEW YORK in association with MODERN INDUSTRY MAGAZINE NEW YORK PREFACE kLL MODERN enterprises whether profit or non-profit institutions possess three primary common classifications of management problems 1. Determination of the purposes of the enterprise basic policy on what are its goals and what will be its scope of operations. 2. Determination of the best methods for organization and systematic operation by the persons and groups which will perform the func tions which are required to accomplish the purposes of the enter prise. 3. Administration of the persons and groups as a team of cooperating individuals most effectively to accomplish the purposes of the enter prise using the previously determined operating patterns. This book concerns itself with the second of these problems the methods of translating management policy into action of finding the most effective, simplest, and cheapest means of accomplishing every task. This systems problem is universal. It is present in every under taking, large or small. How effectively this problem is met will fre quently decide the success or failure of the undertaking. This book aims to show some of the approaches which, if properly applied, will help in the establishment of effective systems. The general plan throughout the book has been a practical presenta tion of how to make successful systems analyses. First the basic principles underlying good practice are presented in connection with each aspect of the subject. Then, with illustrative examples, the application viPREFACE of these principles using critical questioning procedures is shown. Common pitfalls and obstacles to successful results are discussed and positive action is outlined to help assure more fortunate results. In addition to telling how to design, evaluate, sell, and install systems and how to prepare systems reports and procedures, principles and practices in the operation of a systems department are discussed in some detail how to organize to control the systems of the enterprise and to administer a systems program. Throughout the book are numerous examples of how various aspects of systems and procedures analysis have been applied in leading enter prises engaged in a wide variety of fields of endeavor. Systems Analysis for Effective Administration is thus directed to persons concerned with any phase of managing the operations of an enterprise. It is designed to interest the following types of persons supervisors of all the various specialized activities required in every enterprise procedural responsibilities are an essential part of these persons operations staff personnel engaged in various aspects of systems work, such as systems analysts, forms analysts, equipment specialists, organization analysts, procedure writers, and office planners students in colleges and universities and top-management personnel, who must take the initiative in starting, supporting, and directing a strong and effective systems improvement program. I am greatly indebted to the many business organizations and execu tives with whom I have been associated and who have contributed immeasurably to whatever value this book may have as well as those who have permitted me to use the illustrations included inthis book. NORMAN N...