System variables are defined for the purpose of inquiry upon a particular system type. Inquiry upon these variables and their interrelationships is the means to understand a complex system. The variables identified below are for a social system, the system type of primary concern for strategic management.

Social system variables --

• output - function
• process
• input - structure
• purpose in the environment

See social system for an elaboration on these variables in a comprehensive description of a social system.

See social aspects for insight into variables or aspects beyond the four basic ones presented here.