A system may have many definitions dependent upon the context in which it is used. A system may be defined as a set of interdependent components or factors which accomplish a predetermined goal. As such it may be concluded that the process of project management will always require the creation or use of a system. Ideally the system, though made of different components, will operate in such a fashion that these components will complement one another in the performance of their defined function to a greater degree than they would be able to as separate, independent components. Said system may either exist in a physical sense, with actual interlocking parts carrying out a tangible process, or the system may exist in project management or intangible sense. Most often a system will be composed of both physical and intellectual parts and processes.
In regards to effective project management, a system may be composed of different parts all existing for the purpose of reaching the project’s goal. These may include pre-existing project management processes, learned techniques, different methodologies or lines of thinking and working, as well as tools existing as intellectual processes or physical objects operated by the project management team itself.
This term is defined in the 3rd edition of the PMBOK but not in the 4th.