What best describes the meaning of the term 'system'?

The term 'system' is best described as a set of components that collaborate for some purpose. In this context, a system encompasses various elements—such as people, processes, technology, and information—that interact with one another to achieve a specific goal or objective. This definition highlights the importance of the relationships and interactions between these components, emphasizing that it is not just about individual parts, but rather how they work together as a cohesive whole.

In a business change practice context, understanding systems is essential because it allows professionals to analyze how changes in one component can impact the entire system. This perspective is fundamental when considering operational efficiency, problem-solving, and strategic planning.

While an IT application may be part of a system, it does not encompass the broader concept of interconnected components working for a common purpose. Similarly, a procedure for doing something is focused on a method rather than the holistic view of a system, and formal documentation of processes pertains to recording rather than defining the interactive nature of components within a system. Thus, the correct description explicitly addresses the collaborative and integrated nature of the components involved.