Improving systems engineering execution and knowledge management

The purpose of this paper is to refocus programs back to the basic objectives of systems engineering execution and capturing key domain knowledge during the time when organizations are adopting new processes, procedures or technology. While change is necessary, the discipline of the systems engineering and development process (requirements, design, implementation, test, delivery, product feedback and sustainment) can be adversely impacted in the predicament of checking the updated process and/or procedure compliance box. Simplified approaches will be provided to better manage products and teams including discussion of web and database tools. These approaches provide the ability to better understand and manage products in an age of sometimes overwhelming circumstances. This paper identifies simplified solutions, improvement suggestions and work flow diagrams with key entry points (framework) for new and legacy programs that include: appointment of improvement focals; maximum use of web portals (one stop shopping); maximum focus on information that is ldquoneed to knowrdquo and is provided in a simple, database driven manner (project domain knowledge management); minimum focus on information that is ldquonice to knowrdquo but is provided for career advancement; common sense entry points for existing programs by utilizing data obtained from quick assessments and Peer Reviews including standard meeting agendas, intergroup coordination meetings and common status report templates.