Introductory description

ES2D7-15 Systems and Software Engineering Principles

Module web page

Module aims

Outline syllabus

This is an indicative module outline only to give an indication of the sort of topics that may be covered. Actual sessions held may differ.

Introduction to systems concepts & systems thinking
Systems Lifecycle model (i.e. ISO 15288)
Systems and software development approaches: Waterfall, System Vee, Agile, MBSE
Eliciting and analysing user needs (inc. Kano analysis)
Eliciting and writing requirements
Quality and risk analysis: P diagrams, FMEA analysis
SysML: use-case, block, activity, state, sequence diagrams
Stateflow as a tool
Object orientated approach: Classes, methods and inheritance.
Software testing techniques

Learning outcomes

By the end of the module, students should be able to:

• 1) Explain key systems engineering concepts, including: lifecycle model (e.g. ISO 15288), systems thinking perspectives and overall systems approach [C6,M6].
• 2) Explain and compare key lifecycle process models (e.g. waterfall, spiral, V-model, agile) [C6, M6, C13, M13].
• 3) Use a system modelling language (such as SysML) to communicate a system design from structural and behavioural perspectives [C6, M6].
• 4) Use a Systems approach to design and develop a product from initial user/stakeholder needs through to final testing, applying relevant quality techniques [C5, M5, C14, M14].
• 5) Apply object-orientated techniques for solving complex problems [C3, M3].
• 6) Apply an established process to evaluate the risks (including technical, safety, commercial and security) that may exist throughout the lifecycle of a complex system [C9, M9, C10, M10].
• 7) Demonstrate effective teamwork skills within the context of an Engineering design project [C16, M16].

Indicative reading list

Blanchard, Benjamin S., and W. J. Fabrycky. Systems Engineering and Analysis. Harlow: Pearson Education Limited, 2014.. ISBN-13 978-1292025971
A. P. Sage, J. E. Armstrong. Introduction to Systems Engineering. Wiley Series in Systems Engineering. Wiley 2000 ISBN-13: 978-0471027669
A. Kossiakoff. “Systems Engineering Principles and Practice” Wiley Series in Systems Enigneering. Wiley 2002 ISBN-13: 978-0470405482
Wasson, C., "System Analysis, Design, and Development: Concepts, Principles, and Practices." Wiley Series in Systems Engineering and Management. Wiley 2005. ISBN-13: 978-0471393337

PYSTER, A., OLWELL, D. H. The Guide to the Systems Engineering Body of Knowledge (SEBoK) – continuously updated WIKI

Subject specific skills

Ability to conceive, make and realise a component, product, system or process.
Ability to be pragmatic, taking a systematic approach and the logical and practical steps necessary for, often complex, concepts to become reality.
Ability to seek to achieve sustainable solutions to problems and have strategies for being creative and innovative.

Transferable skills

Numeracy: apply mathematical and computational methods to communicate parameters, model and optimize solutions.
Apply problem solving skills, information retrieval, and the effective use of general IT facilities.
Communicate (written and oral; to technical and non-technical audiences) and work with others.

Exercise initiative and personal responsibility, including time management, which may be as a team member or leader

Awareness of the nature of engineering business and enterprise in the creation of economic and social value

Overcome difficulties by employing skills, knowledge and understanding in a flexible manner

Ability to formulate and operate within appropriate codes of conduct, when faced with an ethical issue

Appreciation of the global dimensions of engineering, customers, commerce and communication

Be professional in their outlook, be capable of team working, be effective communicators, and be able to exercise responsibility and sound management approaches.