Zen and the Art of Systems Analysis: Meditations on Computer Systems Development

Zen and the Art of Systems Analysis: Meditations on Computer Systems Development
by Patrick McDermott

Zen and the Art of Systems Analysis: Meditations on Computer Systems Development
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Book Summary Information

Author: Patrick McDermott
Edition: Paperback
Audio: English (Original Language); English (Unknown); English (Published)
Published: 2002-11
ISBN: 0595256791
Number of pages: 198
Publisher: Writers Club Press

Book Reviews of Zen and the Art of Systems Analysis: Meditations on Computer Systems Development

Book Review: Unique - and a fun read
Summary: 5 Stars

To say this book is different from any technical book I've ever read would be an understatement. The best way to describe it is to use an analogy from real life. We all have had a boss or coworker who is a born teacher and imparts their extensive experience in a reflective manner.

This book is like that person. Mr. McDermott's experience is extensive - I purchased this book based on the high regard I have for one he coauthored titled, "Workflow Modeling: Tools for Process Improvement and Application Development" ISBN 1580530214. He is also a born teacher who uses anecdotes, past experiences, analogies and other devices to impart knowledge about the most important topics in systems analysis - analysis, design, consulting, business, economics, corporate culture and models.

Each topic area contains a mixture of experience from jobs he has worked, his reflections on the key issues, published works and comments by others with whom he has worked, and clear advice. There is a thread of humor that runs through this book, but the messages he give are serious and well thought out.

As you read this book you will be drawn in by the conversational style - it's as though he is talking to and mentoring you, and much of what he says may be something you already know on a conscious or subconscious level. However, it's the presentation and the personal voice that make much of this material sound like fresh ideas. That is where the Zen comes in. A read through this book will open your eyes to subtleties of ideas that on the surface seem obvious. Certainly you will approach analysis with a fresh perspective.

If for no other reason, read this book for the pleasure of reading - you'll still come away with insights that will stay with you.

Summary of Zen and the Art of Systems Analysis: Meditations on Computer Systems Development

Stuck in a rut? Need to get outside the box? Don't know what you're doing? Try a little Zen Analysis. Whether you're new to systems analysis-or have been there, done that and seen it all-but especially if you want to ponder the significance of information systems analysis in the scheme of the universe, this book is for you. The author brings a unique perspective to the problems of computer system analysis & design that will get your creative juices flowing. Chapters consider the essence of Analysis, Design, Consulting, Business, Economics, Culture, Methodology, and Modeling. Each topic is looked at from a perspective that will give experienced or aspiring analysts a new way of looking at the job. Learn why and how to Embrace Contradiction and Choose the Middle Way to come up with an idea which is completely absurd, except that it works. This will let you attack a difficult problem from another angle, one that leads to a surprisingly elegant solution. This book is the opposite of academic-read it to open your mind to see different, and get out of the box.

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