The System (a work of fiction)

Groaning, creaking, squealing.. the system goes on. No matter what abuse people gave it. No matter how much data it receives. No matter what time of day.

The system has also become an outlet for people's escapism. If something does not work or did not get done by someone, the system is always there to blame. What is a system but to bear the brunt of endless complaints? It silently processes all input and allows itself to be moulded to produce an output that meets the demands of the workplace.

"The system integrates all of our work; a one-stop centre" the Big Boss had said.

"It has been created by a number of smart people in the organisation and captured my vision exactly. So I feel very glad today to announce the release of the system's final version for everyone to use!" he had said with aplomb (note the exclamation mark, no less).

Applause followed, as with any announcement made by the Big Boss.

The little bosses will follow the pathway charted by the Big Boss, and collectively the "Management" will determine the overall direction of the system.

The system watched silently, not knowing what to expect.