Five aspects of engineering complex systems emerging constructs and methods

This paper introduces and describes a five aspect framework for the engineering of complex systems. The framework serves three purposes: (1) characterizing and elaborating engineering methods to ensure coverage of essential aspects; (2) providing an organizing taxonomy for research initiatives related to developing methods and practices; and (3) providing a focusing framework to develop management and innovation strategies for complex systems. The framework has been useful in structuring an engineering methods research program and assessing the balance of methods under development both within each of the aspects, as well as in combination. This paper describes the use of the framework for the first two purposes, with illustration of its use for descriptive purposes, and as applied to development of a comprehensive research portfolio for evolving advanced engineering methods.