The future of SSM given Generative AI: the power of ‘purpose’ and its context (or “A Grok 3 enabled story regarding a future for systems thinking and practice”)

This paper presents a recent discussion between the author and Grok 3, a Generative AI programme. The ‘conversation’ begins with the author ‘testing’ the software to discover its ability to describe three related systems concepts: the idea that “all perception is selection” (Youngson, 1996), Vickers’ concept of an “appreciative system” (1965) and Checkland’s Soft Systems Methodology (SSM) (1981). The software produces a surprisingly discerning description of the three concepts and their associated ideas. However, it goes a step further than mere description and evaluation of these ideas by inviting the author to consider a “thought experiment” where it applies SSM to the historical context discussed by Youngson. This unexpected experiment prompts the author to explore the software’s ability to implement SSM-type modelling: the author requests Grok 3 to use SSM’s Root Definitions (RDs) to provide insight into different stakeholders’ views of the current Ukraine-Russia conflict (as of 04/03/2025). The software offers a range of different RDs and their associated CATWOE elements. One RD is selected for refinement and the development of a Conceptual Model (CM) through an iterative process which is documented.

The purpose of the exercise presented is to explore the potential future role of SSM and associated systems of inquiry (such as the Appreciative Inquiry Method) given the increasingly powerful AI programmes available. The conclusion is that AI is not only able to offer innovative analysis of existing ideas but also more than capable of undertaking the sophisticated modelling of ‘purpose’ (T) within its wider appreciative context (W) that lies at the heart of SSM. Consequently, we no longer need the skills to produce such models - we merely need to know how to use the models to create appropriate and useful inquiry.