Game theory as a means of modeling system of systems viability and feasibility

In the design of traditional systems, the estimation of the initial economic viability and technical feasibility of a concept were the primary outputs of preconceptual and conceptual design. With a shift towards the system of systems, the estimation of economic viability and technical feasibility of the proposed system of systems becomes more complicated since each stake holder´s perspective must be considered. These varying perspectives create a situation where the technical feasibility of one entity may be dependent on the economic viability of another entity. However, each of the entities is managed and operated independently and will make decisions in its own best interest. This paper offers a game theoretic approach to understanding the added complications of a system of systems. A notional example of game theory applied a simplified smart power grid provides an example of both implementation and use of the game theoretic approach.