Systems Theory: Bridging the Gap Between Science and Practice for Systems Engineering

Abstract

AbstractThis paper explores Systems Theory (ST) contributions to improve the Systems Engineering (SE) discipline and practice. Recently, INCOSE has recognized that ST can provide a valuable theoretical and conceptual foundation to better ground the evolving SE discipline. At a fundamental level ST can be described as a set of axioms (taken for granted truths about systems) and propositions (principles, concepts, and laws that explain system behavior, structure, and performance) with a basis in the underlying science of systems. Our purpose is to bridge the gap between Systems Science and SE by exploring the practical implications for ST to improve both the SE discipline and practice. Following a short introduction to ST in the context of the SE discipline challenges, two primary objectives are pursued: (1) overview and positioning of ST for contribution to SE development, and (2) examination of articulation of ST axioms and associated propositions and their implications for enhancing SE practice. The paper closes with suggestion of the reciprocal contributions for SE and ST as well as the enhancement of SE to deal more effectively with increasingly complex systems and their problems.