Systems often grow and develop organically. A system may be initially designed but, people come and go, processes are changed, new controls implemented, old controls removed, even the purpose changed. Many systems develop informally as people work together, relying on skilled individuals, short communication chains, and easy access to empowered decision makers.

Systems can become extremely complex and be perceived very differently by people who operate within and interact with them; in respect of both the purpose and operation of the system.

Systems not serving their intended purpose can have a range of consequences; increased costs, reduced competitiveness, inability to respond to change. The impact may be minor but, can be catastrophic.

Systems improvement addresses the risk of a system that is not meeting its intended purpose by realigning it so it has the focus, capabilities, and insight it needs to succeed.