Research Interests
Complex Systems Engineering - Complex systems engineering, or system of systems engineering (SoSE) is primarily about structuring and ordering problem domains. SoSE deals with complex systems through rigorous analysis, modeling, and transformation development. System of Systems Engineering is ultimately about structuring and ordering complex systems problems. It is focused on the methodical analysis, design, and transformation of complex systems that must function as an integrated unity to perform a mission subject to constraints. In essence, SoSE provides direction to address the transformation of complex systems to achieve higher levels of mission performance. This requires the development of methodology, processes, and methods to facilitate effectiveness in the design, analysis, and transformation of complex systems.
Work Systems Modeling, Analysis, and Redesign - Work systems are the complex activities, processes, and tasks that function together to produce a product or service. Traditionally, enterprises have been given a plethora of new techniques to operate on "a single aspect" of this complex system. For example, TQM, re-engineering, stretch targeting, balanced scorecard, and the Learning Organization are only a few of the many approaches which promised deliverance for enterprise problems. While not disparaging these techniques (each has merit in its own right), a more robust approach to work system design is sought in this research trust. The focus is on development and application of methods to identify ineffective architectures in complex technical work systems and provide for their systemic redesign. This is achieved through a structured approach to model, analyze, and redesign the identified work system.
Operational Systems Engineering and Analysis - Managers, supervisors, and enterprises solve problems every day. In many cases the problems recur at a later point in time or somewhere else. This research thrust is aimed at the application of systems analysis methods (quantitative and qualitative) to understand the systemic nature of complex problems. In effect, methods which attempt to ensure that the enterprise does not "solve the wrong problem precisely and many times". The emphasis is on effective application of systems based methodologies to structure complex problems and provide systemic solutions. Development of a rigorous method of contextual problem formulation and resolution from the discipline of systems analysis is central to this thrust.
Project Management Systems Development -- Traditional project management techniques have been successfully applied in manufacturing/industrial settings featuring stable environments. However, many current enterprises perform work in turbulent environments characterized by uncertainty, rapid change, and high complexity. These characteristics stray from the traditional environments encountered by historically successful applications of project management. This research thrust is aimed at bring the disciplined approach of project management into focus for enterprises operating in highly complex environments. These enterprises must maintain agility not afforded by traditional project management approaches.
Collaborative Engineering Work Systems - Collaborative engineering has been receiving increased attention in the literature. However, a bulk of the attention has been on the tools (software) that can support high-level engineering collaboration. The narrow focus on information technologies of collaboration is shortsighted. A more holistic conception of collaborative environments, taken from a systems perspective, holds greater utility for effective design, analysis, operation, and maintenance of these sophisticated human technical endeavors.
