Although the term “Systems Engineering” dates back to the 1940s, and the concept was practiced even earlier than that, there seems to be a growing emphasis on System Engineering, perhaps because Systems have become more complex in recent times. During my early years of training and practice as an electrical engineer decades ago, I do not recall hearing or learning much about Systems Engineering, but it seems to have gotten much more well-deserved attention since then. Feel free to argue these points if you wish, but this has been my observation.
So, what can go wrong if Systems Engineering principles are ignored? What could possibly go wrong if you have multiple engineers concentrating on their own aspect of the overall design, and no one paying attention to the overall system? Take a look at this humorous video and see what can happen…
But seriously, though…..
One of the best descriptions of Systems Engineering that I have seen is from INCOSE ( International Council on Systems Engineering ). It says “Systems engineers are at the heart of creating successful new systems. They are responsible for the system concept, architecture, and design. They analyze and manage complexity and risk. They decide how to measure whether the deployed system actually works as intended. They are responsible for a myriad of other facets of system creation. Systems engineering is the discipline that makes their success possible – their tools, techniques, methods, knowledge, standards, principles, and concepts. The launch of successful systems can invariably be traced to innovative and effective systems engineering.”
So, how can today’s busy and overworked engineer learn more about Systems Engineering? Or, even if you think you already know everything about Systems Engineering, how can you refresh your knowledge so it is more relevant to the workplace of 2019?
Applied Technology Institute may have exactly what you are looking for. ATI recently merged with Honourcode, Inc., and now offers a full line of Systems Engineering courses being taught by original Honourcode instructors, including Eric Honour.
There is still time to register for our next offering of Applied Systems Engineering, being offered in Columbia, Md starting on September 23, 2019. This course includes a hands-on class exercise conducted in small groups. Part A analyzes a system concept and requirements, developing specific test requirements,. Part B creates an effective test program and test procedures for the product system. Part C builds the robotic systems per assembly instructions. Part D implements the test program to evaluate the final robots. It is a really fun and informative in-class exercise. Here is a cool video of the System Product built in this class.
Please read more about this opportunity at the following link.