LAUSR

Linking engineering requirements and designs to business realities is a challenge in many industries; it requires cooperation between specialists from diverse specializations and backgrounds. Systems engineering has emerged as an approach to synthesize complex demands, potentially conflicting needs and desires, and constraints from costs, personnel, and other resources. In this book, the author presents the complex systems methodology (CSM) as a means of understanding the key concepts, processes, and interrelationships that must be managed when a large engineering project is underway. This extremely accessible and readable book will be valuable for both students and experts in project management or engineering management. The first two chapters define systems engineering from a process perspective. Next, the CSM is described and positioned as a way to coordinate people, resources, and information in the context of projects. Chapter 5 examines metrics and measurements for project success in terms of an insightful four-dimensional model, linking experience, results, achievement, and perception of usefulness of a metric to perceived success. Chapter 6 then discusses “tailoring” – choosing the appropriate level of rigor for each stage of a project, and integrating agile approaches with traditional project structures, keeping risk management in mind. The last two chapters integrate all the concepts under the umbrella of the CSM, and explore the future of systems engineering and how the CSM relates. The “Apply Now” section in each chapter encourages readers to relate the systems engineering concepts to events and issues in their lives, which facilitates concept understanding and retention. Although the book orients itself in terms of projects, the concepts and ideas that are presented could easily be applied to performance improvement initiatives, process management, or process redesign. Designed for “individuals looking for just enough lightweight, flexible structure to help them meet their most important goals, no matter how complicated or complex,” this book meets its stated goals. It will be useful for managers and executives who are just beginning the journey to integrated management systems. It is a compelling read that definitively communicates the value of integration across systems that traditionally have been treated independently.