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A systems approach can be applied to more complex administrative challenges,from transport and tourism to the environment.
The ancient Greek philosopher Aristotle said that "the whole is greater than the sum of its parts". He could have been describing a systems approach, which makes organisations more functional by looking at big-picture processes and practices. A systems approach can save money too.
Imagine a newly opened office building with 30 stories and only three lifts. Frustrated employees complain to the building's management about having to wait too long during rush hour. The lifts are sped up a little with manual operators. But employees are still unhappy.
So, management considers other solutions. One suggestion is to replace the outdated control device with one that offers a mix of express stops and local ones -costing US$5,000. Another suggestion is to install a new lift, costing much more at US$60,000. But then, a staff member named Anna suggests a clever alternative that would only cost US$300. She argues that the source of frustration in waiting for the lift is boredom...