Systems Engineering: From Need Recognition to Method Execution

Abstract

Significant attention has been given in the Systems Engineering field to the methods, processes, organizations and tools that should be employed to produce successful systems. Additionally, much effort has been spent describing the many business needs that can be satisfied by applying a robust Systems Engineering approach. There is, however, a frequently discussed but poorly understood gray area between the recognition of the need for Systems Engineering capability and the actual execution of a Systems Engineering methodology and process. This gray area represents that time during which change begins; the time when the need for Systems Engineering capability is recognized to some degree within an organization, but the mechanisms necessary to act upon that need have not yet been set into motion. This publication includes a discussion of the practical challenges that an organization seeking to implement Systems Engineering capability may face during this especially formative time. Additionally, this publication includes a case study documenting the approach taken by one of the world's largest producers of medium and heavy-duty trucks, school buses and mid-range diesel engines.