Systems Practice: An Application of “Soft” Systems Thinking in the Context of IS Planning for Small Business

In order to facilitate learning and improve the situation of the small business, action research is being carried out with an independently owned pharmacy in Western Australia (as an example of small business) using the soft systems methodology (SSM) to help determine strategic directions for small business owners. This study is an exercise in rational intervention to support action as well as research. It is concerned about the needs of small business and how small business might be able to better empower themselves by using a constructive framework for information systems planning.