Systems approach is an administrative control mechanism widely used by military, private enterprise, and educational institutions. An introductory explanation of sys- tems theory and an example of the systems approach in respiratory therapy educa- tion programs indicate that this mechanism can also be beneficial to the administra- tion of respiratory therapy programs. Application of the systems approach by view- ing the education program as an open system that is broken into component parts and that interrelates with its environment can lead to better administrative control by the therapist program director through more accurate allocation of resources, faster diagnosis of program weaknesses, and better personnel accountability. Such applica- tion on a widespread basis could further lead to the ability to more accurately compare different respiratory therapy education programs and critically evaluate the organizational frameworks of such programs across the country.
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