RE: Lack of Deming Philosophy in Education, bounding of systems

["Vic Forte" <vic@vicf.com>]

> We may not be in a position to affect directly the set of rules
> rules whereby
> these input and output boxes operate, but we neglect
> understanding them at
> our peril.

Sometimes the variations in the inputs that come from the environment can be
so great that they overwhelm the system in focus. That's my experience. To
that extent at least, I would attach great importance to understanding the
wider system.

I only see a system as an operational definition. As with all operational
definitions, I suggest that its relevance is firstly, that those involved
arrive at its form and boundaries through consensus, and secondly that such
a form should serve an agreed purpose.