The System Safety Perspective

This chapter intends to contribute a "systems perspective" in aviation system but, given the often varied and vague use of the term, it starts by examining its definition. First, note the word "group"—the chapter does not focus on an individual aspect of technology or human performance, but instead discusses the process of identifying the set of most relevant aspects. Second, note the emphasis on "interacting, interrelated, or interdependent elements"—beyond assembling a "grab-bag" of separate aspects the systems perspective represents how they relate to each other. Third, aviation systems definitely comprise "a complex whole," which can only be comprehended by its human participants if the "system perspective" serves as a lens illuminating the most meaningful representations. Finally, examining the etymology of "system," note the emphasis on action—an effective systems perspective is defined by its ability to improve design.