It is well known that urban and environmental problems are too complex to be amenable to complete quantitative solution. Most systems analysts have responded by constructing simulations that operate at a level of aggregation which allows for the use of some form of quantitative methodology. In doing so we have lost the ability to incorporate disaggregated and qualitative public attitudes in the overall system's analysis. Yet, public attitudes play a major role in the structure and function of urban and environmental systems and must be communicated to the analyst to avoid their being left outside the system boundary.
It is the purpose of this paper to describe the major specifications of a communications framework between the public or its representatives and the systems analyst. The public sector decision making process has several areas in need of improved communications. One of these -- the feedback communication between the analyst and the public -- is being addressed here
