Real MBSE: The Role of SE Across the Lifecycle Webinar

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Systems engineering has become an indispensable discipline that guides projects from conception through deployment and beyond. Dr. Steven Dam, a seasoned expert with over 40 years of experience, emphasizes the transformative approach of Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE) and its critical role throughout the entire project lifecycle.

This blog recaps Part 1 of our Real MBSE webinar series, where Dr. Dam took attendees on a deep dive into the foundational concepts from Chapters 1–3 of his book, Real MBSE.

Understanding Real MBSE

Traditional MBSE often relies on formal languages like SysML to create models that support design and analysis. However, Dr. Dam advocates for a broader, data-driven perspective, which he terms "Real MBSE." This approach goes beyond mere modeling; it emphasizes capturing essential data elements and integrating them seamlessly into project decision-making processes. By doing so, teams can better manage costs, schedules, risks, and system "ilities" such as reliability and maintainability.

Why "Real" MBSE?

Many approaches fall short because they neglect critical factors like cost, schedule, and risk. Dr. Dam points out that most systems engineering methods overlook these aspects, leading to suboptimal systems that may fail in the marketplace or even catastrophically. Real MBSE seeks to bridge this gap by providing a comprehensive, data-centric framework that makes all relevant information accessible and actionable for both technical and management teams.

The Lifecycle Perspective

Systems engineering doesn't start and end with design. Instead, it evolves throughout the lifecycle of a project:

• Early Phases: Lead the architecture development, where systems engineers define high-level concepts and ensure all stakeholder needs are addressed.
• Design & Implementation: Collaborate closely with software and hardware teams to realize the architecture.
• Operation & Maintenance: Continuously monitor system performance, manage risks, and ensure readiness.
• Re-Engineering & Disposal: Phase-out considerations and lessons learned inform future projects.

Dr. Dam highlights that the systems engineer's role adapts at each stage, emphasizing that system architecture and design are not one-time activities but ongoing processes.

Integrating Project Management

An essential aspect of Real MBSE is recognizing the interaction between systems engineering and project management. Dr. Dam notes that, especially in smaller projects, personnel often assume both roles. Effective communication and shared datasets foster better collaboration, leading to more successful outcomes.

Data-Driven Decision Making

At its core, Real MBSE is about making informed decisions based on structured data. Dr. Dam underscores the importance of a data schema, the underlying data model, that allows teams to orchestrate information efficiently. This enables management to navigate market forces, technical constraints, and stakeholder priorities effectively.

Practical Implementation

Dr. Dam’s approach leverages specialized tools and techniques to extend data modeling beyond traditional MBSE methods. He advocates a schema-driven process in which understanding data elements ensures that all aspects, from costs to risks, are integrated into the modeling environment. This comprehensive view helps prevent costly overruns, delays, or system failures.

Conclusion

The evolving landscape of systems engineering demands more than traditional methods. Dr. Steven Dam's concept of "Real MBSE" emphasizes a holistic, data-driven approach that integrates technical rigor with project management and decision-making. By applying these principles across the entire lifecycle, from architecture to disposal, organizations can develop resilient, cost-effective, and high-performing systems that succeed in today's competitive environment.