What systems engineering technologies should you know?

1 Systems Modeling Language

Systems Modeling Language (SysML) is a graphical modeling language that supports the specification, analysis, design, verification, and validation of systems. SysML is based on the Unified Modeling Language (UML), but extends it with features that are specific to systems engineering, such as requirements, parametrics, ports, and allocations. SysML can help you capture the structure, behavior, and properties of a system, as well as the relationships and interactions among its components and stakeholders.

2 Model-Based Systems Engineering

Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE) is a methodology that uses models as the primary means of communication, documentation, and analysis throughout the systems engineering lifecycle. MBSE can help you improve the consistency, completeness, and traceability of your system requirements, design, and verification. MBSE can also help you reduce errors, risks, and costs by enabling early validation, simulation, and testing of your system models.

3 Systems Engineering Tools

Systems engineering tools are software applications that support the various activities and processes of systems engineering, such as requirements management tools like DOORS, Jira, and Caliber, modeling and simulation tools like MATLAB, Simulink, and MagicDraw, configuration management tools like Git, SVN, and ClearCase, and project management tools like Microsoft Project, Primavera, and Asana. These tools help define, organize, link, track system requirements; create, analyze, test system models; manage changes and versions of system artifacts; and plan, schedule, monitor, control system projects.

4 Systems Engineering Standards

Systems engineering standards are guidelines and best practices that define the principles, processes, and methods of systems engineering. For example, ISO/IEC/IEEE 15288 provides a common framework for the lifecycle processes of systems, while ISO/IEC/IEEE 42010 offers a common vocabulary and architecture description. Additionally, the INCOSE Systems Engineering Handbook provides a detailed description of the systems engineering activities and outcomes, and CMMI for Development provides a maturity model for improving the quality and performance of system development processes.

5 Systems Thinking

Systems thinking is a mindset and a skill that enables you to understand the interconnections and dynamics of complex systems. Systems thinking can help you identify the root causes of problems, anticipate the consequences of actions, and design solutions that are holistic and sustainable. Systems thinking can also help you foster collaboration and learning among diverse stakeholders and perspectives.

6 Systems Engineering Competencies

Systems engineering competencies are the knowledge, skills, and abilities required for a successful systems engineer. These include understanding systems engineering processes, such as requirements engineering, architecture design, integration, verification, and validation. Additionally, it’s important to be familiar with systems engineering methods like functional analysis, trade-off analysis, risk analysis, and decision analysis. Systems engineering tools are also essential, including communication and documentation tools. Furthermore, systems engineering management and leadership skills are needed to plan, organize, lead, and control system projects and teams. Finally, having a vision for the future of the system as well as the ability to innovate and influence is key for successful systems engineering.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?