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10

Sociotechnical systems

Objectives
The objectives of this chapter are to introduce the concept of a
sociotechnical system—a system that includes people, software,
and hardware—and to show that you need to take a systems
perspective on security and dependability. When you have read
this chapter, you will:

know what is meant by a sociotechnical system and understand
the difference between a technical, computer-based system and
a sociotechnical system;

have been introduced to the concept of emergent system
properties, such as reliability, performance, safety, and security;
know about the procurement, development, and operational
activities that are involved in the systems engineering process;
understand why software dependability and security should not be
considered in isolation and how they are affected by systems
issues, such as operator errors.

Contents
10.1 Complex systems
10.2 Systems engineering
10.3 System procurement
10.4 System development
10.5 System operation