This report consists of a discussion about suitable methods for studying complex sociotechnical systems that are still being developed. There are large economical advantages with studying new systems before they are completely developed since problems can be discovered early and thereby avoided. It is, however, difficult to study developing systems, there are methodological limitations. These limitations are discussed and recommendations for studying non-existing complex sociotechnical systems are presented.The report is based on experiences from a study of the introduction of a shipboard helicopter on the corvettes that the Swedish Armed Forces are developing. A shipboard helicopter implies high requirements on the hosting ship.