Title: A system of systems representation of solving a complex problem: the establishment of a maritime safety radar

Authors: Yi Yue; Hugh Barkley

Addresses: Joint and Operations Analysis Division, Defence Science and Technology Organisation, ACT, Australia ' Joint and Operations Analysis Division, Defence Science and Technology Organisation, ACT, Australia

Abstract: This is a case study of inserting technology into an extant system of systems (SoS) as a solution to an operational problem - the installation of a maritime surveillance radar which is remotely monitored and remotely operated. This paper highlights the hallmark complex interdependencies of various aspects of a SoS. In particular, it illustrates the necessity of changing system boundaries as the SoS evolves and the importance of continuous senior stakeholders' buy-in, while the leading role shifts between organisations. The case study has been framed using current SoS theoretical constructs and discusses practicalities when they were put into action. Finally, based on the lessons learnt, a few heuristics are proposed for technology insertion in a SoS.

Keywords: technology insertion; SoS evolution; complexity; stakeholders; system boundaries; system of systems engineering; SoSE; complex problems; maritime safety; maritime radar; surveillance radar; remote monitoring; case study.

DOI: 10.1504/IJSSE.2015.071459

International Journal of System of Systems Engineering, 2015 Vol.6 No.3, pp.237 - 252

Received: 11 Dec 2014
Accepted: 28 Apr 2015
Published online: 28 Aug 2015 *

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