A systems theory based approach to systems engineering of computer based systems and its consequences

This paper argues that, like for any engineering discipline, experience and heuristics of Engineering of Computer Based Systems need to be grounded in a practical theory. On top of such a theory, a systems engineering approach has to be defined that allows the professional practice of the discipline and the safeguarding of the entire life cycle of all its artifacts. Such a systematization of a discipline inevitably leads to guidelines and reference standards. Those reference standards reflect the systems engineering approach and regulate the engineering process. The different classes those reference standards fall into are discussed, the nature of the underlying theories is elaborated on, and the consequences for the contents of the reference standards are sketched.