How can you optimize systems engineering decisions?

1 Define the problem

The first step to optimize systems engineering decisions is to clearly define the problem and its scope. You need to identify the needs and requirements of the system, the stakeholders and their expectations, the context and environment of the system, and the criteria and metrics for evaluating the system. You also need to understand the assumptions, risks, and uncertainties that may affect the system and its outcomes. A well-defined problem statement can guide your decision-making process and help you avoid ambiguity and confusion.

2 Explore alternatives

The next step is to explore and generate alternatives for the system design, architecture, configuration, or operation. You can use various methods and tools to generate alternatives, such as brainstorming, morphological analysis, functional decomposition, or optimization algorithms. You should aim to create a diverse and feasible set of alternatives that cover the range of possible solutions and satisfy the system requirements and constraints. You should also document the rationale and assumptions behind each alternative.

3 Evaluate alternatives

The third step is to evaluate and compare the alternatives based on the criteria and metrics that you defined in the first step. You can use different methods and tools to evaluate alternatives, such as decision matrices, value models, multi-criteria analysis, or simulation models. You should consider the performance, quality, cost, reliability, risk, and impact of each alternative on the system and its stakeholders. You should also account for the uncertainties and sensitivities that may affect the evaluation results.

5 Implement the decision

The fifth step is to implement the decision and execute the system design, development, testing, or operation. You should follow a systematic and structured process to implement the decision, such as a project plan, a work breakdown structure, a schedule, or a budget. You should also monitor and control the implementation process, using appropriate tools and techniques, such as status reports, dashboards, or checkpoints. You should also document the implementation process and its outcomes.

6 Review the decision

The final step is to review the decision and evaluate its effectiveness and efficiency. You should compare the actual outcomes of the system with the expected outcomes that you defined in the first step. You should also identify the lessons learned, the best practices, and the improvement opportunities for the system and the decision-making process. You should also update and refine the system requirements, criteria, metrics, and alternatives based on the feedback and experience that you gained from the implementation and review process.

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?