Title: Lessons learned during implementation of the SoSE method in a navy SoS engineering analysis

Authors: Dave Walters, Jennifer Shauger

Addresses: Scientific Research Corporation, Chesapeake, VA 23320, USA. ' Space and Naval Warfare Systems Center Atlantic, P.O. Box 1376, Norfolk, Virginia 23501, USA

Abstract: The system of systems (SoS) engineering (SoSE) methodology is a rigorous engineering analysis that invests heavily in the understanding and framing of an SoS problem under study. It is a guide to be adapted to the particular circumstances that define its application. By requiring a rigorous engineering analysis of the SoS problem and its associated context, the SoSE methodology minimises the chance that a Type III error of solving the wrong problem will be committed at the outset of an SoSE analysis. This approach was applied to a specific SoS issue affecting the US Navy in order to expose engineers and technicians to SoSE thinking, techniques, and methods with which Navy technical personnel can effectively deal with 21st century SoS challenges. The application|s primary goal of applying the knowledge, skills, and abilities acquired by the participants was realised with execution of a capstone exercise. The secondary goal of influencing fleet capability has yet to be realised.

Keywords: system theory; systems thinking; system of systems; navy SOS; system of systems engineering; SOSE; fleet capability; US Navy; United States; USA.

DOI: 10.1504/IJSSE.2011.040555

International Journal of System of Systems Engineering, 2011 Vol.2 No.2/3, pp.226 - 233

Published online: 16 Oct 2014 *

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