''Meanings'' Based Human Centered Design Of Systems

There is a renewed interest in Systems Thinking and Systems Design in the practice and pedagogy of Design. Theoretical work to propose new design theories or methods of design are creating discussion on first principles and/or a general lack of it. Methods to map, model, understand the critical information needed for design of complex systems are being sought by practitioners and academics alike such as Organizational Semiotics and Ethical Value Based Design practices. This paper posits a hybrid approach based in traditional Human Systems Integration (HSI) approach and Organizational Semiotics. We believe that creating ability to incorporate perceived meanings and values of stakeholders will yield a much more empathetic and flexible design of systems.