Discusses application of systems analysis to social and behavioral science as well as machine and non-machine systems. Presents rationale, principles, techniques, and advantages and disadvantages. (CJ)

A systems approach provides planning by which counselors can (a) specify what they are trying to accomplish in operational terms, (b) develop specific procedures to promote these objectives, (c) monitor the client's progress continuously, and (d) determine empirically whether or not the counseling goals have been accomplished. (Author)