Introduction to Systems Engineering

An easy-to-use, comprehensive guide to systems engineeringmethods.

Systems engineering (SE), or the engineering of large-scalesystems, is key to achieving reliable, efficient, cost-effectiveproducts and services in diverse fields, including communicationand network systems, software engineering, information systems,manufacturing, command and control, and defense systems acquisitionand procurement. This book offers a unique introduction to theworld of systems engineering, focusing on analysis andproblem-solving techniques that can be applied throughout the lifecycle of product systems and service systems. While the authorsprovide a framework for the functional levels involved in systemsengineering processes and system management, the bulk of thediscussion is devoted to the practical application of formulation,analysis, and interpretation methods.

Through the use of real-world examples and useful graphs, readerswill learn to:
* Choose the most appropriate methods and tools for a givenproject
* Apply issue formulation methods to assure that the right problemhas been identified
* Work with formal analysis methods to assure that the problem issolved correctly
* Apply issue interpretation methods to insure that decisionsreflect human values and technological realities, and thereby makeinterpretation work for them in the decision-making process
* Develop an appreciation for the engineering and troubleshootingof large systems

ANDREW P. SAGE, PhD, purdue University, is University Professor and First American Bank Professor in the school of Information Technology at George Mason University.

JAMES E. ARMSTRONG JR., PhD, Georgia Institute of Technology, is Professor in the Department of Systems Engineering at the United States Military Academy in West Point, New York.