Systems development philosophy

• Published in: Computers & society 1992-10, Vol.22 (1-4), p.12-23
• Main Authors: Dahlbom, Bo, Mathiassen, Lars
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• ISSN: 0095-2737
• DOI: 10.1145/147087.147090

A philosophy book for systems developers is outlined, and it is argued that philosophy can play an important role in the education of professional practitioners. All systems developers acquire a philosophy in their education and practice. This philosophy is expressed in their views on the problems of their profession. But to what extent is this philosophy confornted with their personal practice? To what extent is it open to discussion and subject to change? Only some systems developers actively reflect on their practice. They do not accept problems at face value and they challenge traditions, concepts and methods. They philosophize as part of their practice and in doing so they develop a personal view on their profession.Our intention is to use philosophy to support inexperienced practitioners and students in becoming more professional. We do not want to make philosophers out of systems developers, but rather to encourage them to philosophize. Practitioners and students are invited to engage in a rational conversation about matters which they in their daily activities take for granted. The goal is to take a few steps in the direction of a richer, deeper, clearer, different, more truthful understanding of the activity of systems development.The paper discusses various ways to design a philosophy book for systems developers and concludes by proposing a book consisting of four parts, each dealing with a vital aspect of systems development: systems, development, quality, and perspectives.