1) What does it mean to take a systems view of a project? How does taking a systems view of a project apply to project management?

A systems view is a holistic and analytical way to solve complex problems with the use of three important approaches. The systems philosophy approach which is the overall thought process of things as systems. The systems analysis is a problem solving approach that includes defining the scope of the system, then dividing it up into smaller components, then taking a step back to look at its value, problems, opportunities, and needs. The systems management approach deals with the business, technological and organizational issues that are tied to creating, maintaining, and modifying a system.
By using the systems approach a project manager gets the understanding of the entire organization. These three key components allow for this to happen.