Systems Approach for Development

Aided by a growing realization of the complexity of the problems involved and stimulated, no doubt, by the spectacular successes of the systems approach in such areas as the space and defense programs, there has been in recent years an increasing interest in the utilization of the systems approach for developmental problems. A survey of the views and activities of some U.N. bodies regarding the application of systems methodologies in their fields of interest is given. The further use of the systems approach for developmental problems is discussed, and the need is seen not only for the adaptation of techniques but also for the development of new and appropriate approaches. The role which the professional community and others can play in stimulating further interest is suggested.