Systems Architecting and Program Management with the Design Structure Matrix (DSM)

Abstract

AbstractThe design structure matrix (DSM) is a powerful tool for visualizing, analyzing, innovating, and improving systems, including product architectures, organizational structures, and process flows.Akin to a traditional N2 chart and the System‐System matrix (SV‐3) in the DoD Architecture Framework (DoDAF), the DSM is a square matrix showing relationships between system elements. These elements can be product components, teams, activities, etc. By analyzing the DSM, one can prescribe a better (e.g., more modular) system architecture or organization. Adding a time‐basis enables one to prescribe a faster, lower‐risk process. Because the DSM highlights process feedbacks, it helps identify iterations and rework loops—key drivers of cost and schedule risk.The DSM is concise, visually appealing, and used in many organizations across diverse industries. Users have found DSM extremely useful for fostering architectural innovation and enabling the situation awareness and empowerment that motivates the people executing complex processes. This tutorial introduces the DSM and three distinctive applications useful to product developers, systems engineers, and project and program managers. Real‐life examples are presented from the aerospace, automotive, semiconductor, and other industries. Participants will engage in hands‐on exercises (building DSM models) and come away with a clearer understanding of the drivers of critical, emergent behaviors in systems. The methods can be applied immediately to projects for quick results and insights.