7.11. Lessons Learned in Applying the Capability Maturity Model to Systems Engineering Process Improvement

Abstract

ABSTRACTGDE Systems has initiated a systems engineering process improvement program to align with industry movement towards systems engineering process maturity, improve risk management, and focus on up‐front system requirements. The approach was to obtain the current state of the practice from the GDE Systems projects and from industry (INCOSE, SPC, etc). This information was used, together with the Systems Engineering Capability Maturity Model, to establish the company systems engineering process. The initial systems engineering policy and company operating manuals were then generated to establish the process requirements and to document the methodology. The projects were then internally assessed to determine their individual level. The results were used to improve the processes and prepare for a formal appraisal at the end of 1997. The formal appraisal was conducted and future actions were planned to meet Level 3, 4, and 5 goals.