Optimising the Value of Systems Engineering

摘要

Heuristic, intuitive wisdom holds that the practices of systems engineering have high value in the development of complex systems, yet no accepted methods exist to measure that value. In this theoretical paper, the quantitative value of systems engineering is proposed as measurable in several definitive and objective ways. The scope of systems engineering in this context is defined in the broadest terms, matching the perceived value held by those who hire systems engineers. Major components of systems engineering are described in two dimensions: task categories and development system attributes. Measurable value of these components is proposed using three product-level measures: technical quality, risk avoidance, and problem discovery. Finally, a useable program is proposed that can lead to the information necessary to optimise the use of the systems engineering components.