Systems engineering management: a framework for the development of a multidisciplinary discipline

Systems engineering is a multidisciplinary function dedicated to controlling design so that all elements are integrated to provide an optimum, overall system-as contrasted with the integration of optimized sub-elements. A systems engineer is a person who is capable of integrating knowledge from different disciplines and seeing problems with a “holistic view” by applying the “systems approach.” Since no complex system is created by a single person, systems engineering is strongly linked to management. The question addressed in this paper is how can knowledge and skills in systems engineering management be developed through a formal training program. We describe a multidisciplinary framework for curricula planning in systems engineering and suggest that any formal program for such training should consist of the following five chapters: (1) basic studies, (2) disciplinary studies, (3) specific systems, (4) systems engineering concepts and tools, and, (5) management studies. We also advise that any multidisciplinary program of this nature should be established as a cooperative effort of an engineering school and a management school