66 research outputs found
Modern history of system of systems, enterprises, and complex systems
No full textAlex Gorod, S. Jimmy Gandhi, Brian E. White, Vernon Ireland, and Brian Sause
A socio-physical approach to systemic risk reduction in emergency response and preparedness
No full texthis paper proposes a socio-physical approach that considers jointly the interaction and integration of the social and physical views of a system to improve emergency response and preparedness. This is accomplished through a reduction of systemic risk, which refers to a risk that could be greater than the sum of the risks of the individual system constituents. Using network analysis, it is shown that the explicit socio-physical approach yields meaningful qualitative and quantitative differences when compared with approaches that focus on the social and physical views in isolation. The benefits of this proposed approach are illustrated on a case study using clustering analysis and a proof-of-concept simulation. This new approach leads to systemic risk reduction by enabling a more informed and coordinated response strategy following an incident and a better identification of possible consequences and preparation strategies prior to an incident.William Ross, Alex Gorod and Mihaela Ulier
Paradox: Holarchical view of system of systems engineering management
No full textThis paper focuses on a method of developing a framework for effective System of Systems Engineering (SoSE) management.While developing the management process in dealing with SoSE, we are searching for ways to engineer multiple integrated complex systems, which can be concurrently, highly emergent and effectively governable. The authors propose to utilize the "holarchical view" methodology to identify and examine this essential phenomenon of paradoxes of SoSE management. The proposed method is based on the Boardman-Sauser five distinguishing characteristics of Autonomy, Belonging, Connectivty, Diversity, and Emergence. The outcome of this research would influence further studies on the topic and greatly contribute to the SoSE body of knowledge.Alex Gorod, Brian Sauser, John Boardma
A contribution to developing a complex project management BOK
No full textThis paper proposes a project typology focused on system of systems (SoS) projects, which are recognised as complex in a hierarchy of simple, complicated, and complex. Three types of complex systems are proposed: traditional SoS projects, such as defence or air transport, in which a developing project incorporates an existing independent asset; SoS projects which address wicked problems and hence require use of soft system methods to determine stakeholders, boundaries and a solution process; and, integration of assets, such as states or enterprises into an encompassing system. Context, leadership style and personality types suitable for each are proposed. Some tools are referenced. Soft system methods to explore solutions to wicked problems are outlined.Vernon Ireland, Alex Gorod, Brian E. White, S. Jimmy Gandhi, Brian Sause
The role of Command-and-control Management and Governance in Systems Engineering
No full text27th Annual INCOSE International Symposium (IS 2017) . Adelaide, Australia, July 15-20, 2017.
Session 6 Track 4: Acquisition & Supply.Command‐and‐control management has traditionally been the primary methodology used in Systems Engineering (SE) to manage systems. However, even though command‐and‐control has a significant and important role in managing traditional systems, it lacks adaptability and flexibility in dealing with complex systems. A general understanding exists that systems differ in terms of their typology and several different typologies have been proposed in order to assist systems engineers to distinguish between various types of systems. Since different types of systems require different management approaches, the governance method has been recently introduced in SE as a potentially more effective management style for certain types of systems, especially complex adaptive systems. This paper addresses issues faced by systems engineers in choosing whether to apply command‐and‐control management or governance in a particular situation. Additionally, it includes information about different criteria and a profiling methodology. These can be used to help practitioners to differentiate between system types and suggest the appropriate type of management style to apply to a given system. Two cases are presented to illustrate the application of both management approaches under differing degrees of complexity.Alex Gorod, Leonie Hallo, Tiep Nguye
Application of case studies to engineering management and systems engineering education
No full textAs engineering system complexity has increased over the years, numerous complex systems projects have failed due to the lack of an appropriate systemic perspective. Since the solution to this challenge is itself a complex system, educating and training our current and future technical leaders on these challenges, and providing suggested changes in their mind sets, is imperative. As an educational tool, case studies can be a platform through which the analysis, knowledge application, and drawing of conclusions can occur to facilitate coping with the most complex systems. Case study learning has proven successful in the training of business leaders with real life examples of the strategies and tactics used by leading businesses to succeed globally. A valuable characteristic of case studies is that they support a holistic understanding and interpretation of the systems of action or interrelated activities engaged in by the participants. However, case studies are not as broadly used in engineering management and systems engineering education. This paper describes the importance of case studies to engineering management and systems engineering education, discusses frameworks for their implementation, and presents a case study template that can be used as a guideline in engineering education. © 2012 American Society for Engineering Education.S. Jimmy Gandhi, Brian Sauser, Brian Emery White, Alex Gorod, Vernon Irelandhttp://www.asee.org/public/conferences/8/papers/4002/vie
A complex adaptive systems governance framework for regional supply networks
No full textPurpose: This paper aims to propose an empirically grounded governance framework based on complex adaptive systems (CAS) principles to facilitate formation of well-connected regional supply chains that foster economic development, adaptability and resilience of mining regions. Design/methodology/approach: This study is an exploratory case study of the South Australian (SA) mining industry that includes 38 semi-structured interviews with the key stakeholders and structural analysis of the regional supply network (RSN). Findings: Findings demonstrate the applicability of the CAS framework as a structured approach to the governance of the mining industry regional supply chains. In particular, the findings exemplify the relationship between RSN governance, its structure and interconnectivity and their combined impact on the adaptability and resilience of mining regions. Research limitations/implications: The data set analysed in the current study is static. Longitudinal data would permit a deeper insight into the evolution of the RSN structure and connectivity. The validity of the proposed framework could be further strengthened by being applied to other industrial domains and geographical contexts. Practical/implications: The proposed framework offers a novel insight for regional policy-makers striving to create an environment that facilitates the formation of well-integrated regional supply chains in mining regions through more focussed policy and strategies. Originality/value The proposed framework is one of the first attempts to offer a holistic structured approach to governance of the regional supply chains based on CAS principles. With the current transformative changes in the global mining industry, policy-makers and supply chain practitioners have an urgent need to embrace CAS and network paradigms to remain competitive in the twenty-first century.Larissa Statsenko, Alex Gorod, Vernon Irelan
A Digital Transformation Governance Framework for eGovernment: A Systemic Approach
No full textPolicies which have transformed legacy services to digital services in the public sector have had considerable impact on both governments and service users. Research suggests that as a result of digital transformation, public sector services are failing to meet user needs and expectations, with a direct association between user ability to interact with public service entities and digital services. This dissertation argues for the development of a practical tool that can be used to identify, understand and assess relevant systems and their roles in digital transformation processes, in order to develop a governance framework for effective digital transformation in eGovernment. Evidence supporting this research is based on a case study of the Australian Taxation Office. Methodology: An interpretative and exploratory mixed method approach was adopted, using a multimethod technique for data collection. Data included observations, focus groups, surveys and existing data sources, used to profile eGovernment service users and users of legacy systems. The aim was to understand the barriers to use, factors promoting their use and assistance required from service providers. Subsequently, soft systems, Enterprise Architecture and system of systems approaches were applied to provide a foundation for the exploration, collection and analysis of the data. Gioia and thematic analysis was used to find meaning within the qualitative data, while descriptive statistics, logistic regression and longitudinal analysis were used to analyse the quantitative data. Findings: This research identified a number of key factors influencing the long-term adoption of public sector digital services. Within the public sector or eGovernment space, legacy systems are still important to the community as they provide a safety net. Similarly, assistance should be provided through multiple avenues, including online, in person and over the phone. Public sector entities need to invest in educating the community on both the technical and digital components of their services. For taxation, this includes an explanation of what taxation entails and how to lodge returns depending on circumstances. The results of a quasi-randomised control trial demonstrated that non-digital users were more inclined to shift to digital services after receiving communication on their availability and effectiveness. There are numerous factors which impact the adoption and use of digital services in the public sector. Looking at each factor in isolation does not provide a holistic view of the various users. This research identified the need to create a holistic view of the various systems affecting digital transformation and adoption. The findings were used to inform and develop a framework for effective digital transformation of eGovernment services, which has assisted in identifying the relevant systems and assessing their roles and interactions in the process. Research Limitations: This research provides a framework for the ongoing development of eGovernment services. A limitation to this research is that it was based on a case study of a single entity. Additional research was carried out on digital health platforms to demonstrate the generalisability of the findings; however, further research is recommended to address the limitations. Practical Implications: This dissertation proposes a governance framework as a practical tool to guide public sector organisations’ effective digital transformation to eGovernment. The proposed governance framework provides a tool for the identification and assessment of the relevant constituent systems and their roles and interactions within digital transformations. Originality and Value: This research contributes to the body of knowledge through the development of a governance framework which forms a practical tool to guide organisations through effective digital transformations. The research argues that a more holistic understanding of the constituent systems comprising the digital transformation system as a whole can aid with the use or creation of effective digital services within the public sector. Through qualitative and quantitative data analyses, the research was able to identify relevant systems influencing the adoption or non-adoption of digital services in the public sector. The contribution to knowledge within this research is the creation of a practical framework for the effective digital transformation as it assists in the identification and assessment of the relevant systems and their roles and interactions in the process, and which can be applied to private and public sector entities.Thesis (Ph.D.) -- University of Adelaide, Adelaide Business School, 202
Clarifying the project complexity construct: past, present and future
No full textAbstract not availableJavad Bakhshi, Vernon Ireland, Alex Goro
Understanding the dynamics of system-of-systems in complex international negotiations
No full textThis paper explores the intersection between the complex international negotiation processes and the more traditional negotiation modes, emphasizing their strong connection to the issue of the behavioural leadership. The purpose of the study is to demonstrate why the traditional negotiation approaches to complex conflicts have frequently failed in the past, and how the recognition of system-of-systems (SoS) can be helpful to political leaders during the negotiations, from the standpoint of achieving a more sustainable outcome. The concept of leadership style serves as a linking point to determining the dynamics of negotiations and recognition of multiple systems in the study. Specifically, the leaders' personal characteristics - for instance, their personal views with regards to the conflict, level of comfort with ambiguity, physical agility and adaptability in challenging environments - can be crucial to the achievement of successful settlements.Barbara Rapaport, Vernon Ireland and Alex Goro
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