Systems Theory, Organizations and IT

The overall goal of the course is to provide you with fundamental knowledge in systems theory as well as systems theory tools / models to be able to study, diagnose and change organizations by using IT.

Systems behave and appear in different ways – and to be able to study, understand and design them, we need working concepts. Holism, subsystems, processes, relations and environment are examples of covered concepts. Furthermore, we will relate to organisations as systems and discuss their efficiency and effectiveness, information management and control.

Systems theory is applied in business and social contexts, and we use systems theory models and methods to discuss and diagnose organisations and processes. How systems theory can be used to study IT systems and IT management is also covered. The basic idea is to provide an academic framework that will help you develop an organisational and systems science perspective on your technical knowledge.

Teaching Format

The teaching consists of lectures, exercises and tutorials.
The language of instruction is English.

Assessment

The course is examined through an on-campus written exam and group assignments.

Examiner

The schedule will be available no later than one month before the start of the course. We do not recommend print-outs as changes can occur. At the start of the course, your department will advise where you can find your schedule during the course.
Note that the course literature can be changed up to two months before the start of the course.
Course reports are displayed for the three most recent course instances.

Study counsellors

Margrét Håkansson and Mitra Wijkman

Visiting hoursPlease contact us via email if you want to book a meeting. We are available on Campus in Kista and via Zoom.

Phone hoursThursday 12.30–2 pm

Irregular office hoursFirst phone hours for spring 2026: Thursday 15 January