Profiling Systems Using the Defining Characteristics of Systems of Systems

(SoS)

Outline Context SoS definitions SoS Characteristics SoS Scales/Meters SoS Examples Other Characteristics of Systems Usage Conlusions

Context Aim of the work?

Identify and describe the characteristics of SoS Describe scales and corresponding meters for

each characteristic. Describe two other sets of characteristics (quality

and programmatic) and how they can be describe using scale/meters.

Benefits of using scales/meters for profiling Systems

Systems of Systems (SoS)

System: a cohesive integrated group of interdependent or interacting components that regularly collaborate to provide the behavior and characteristics that (1) are needed to meet valid stakeholder needs and desires and (2) cannot be provide separately by the individual components

[Firesmith 2008]

Systems of Systems (SoS)

“An SoS is defined as a set or arrangement of systems that results when independent and useful systems are integrated into a larger system that delivers unique capabilities.” [DOD 2008]

“Modern systems that comprise system of systems problems are not monolithic; rather they have five common characteristics: operational independence of the individual systems, managerial independence of the systems, geographical distribution, emergent behavior and evolutionary development.” [Sage 2001]

A “system of systems [is a] a collection of trans-domain networks of heterogeneous systems that are likely to exhibit operational and managerial independence, geographical distribution, and emergent and evolutionary behaviors that would not be apparent if the systems and their interactions are modeled separately.”‖ [DeLaurentis 2004]

“A system of systems exists when a group of independently operating systems—comprised of people, technology, and organizations—are connected, enabling emergency responders to effectively support day-to-day operations, planned events, or major incidents.” [Homeland Security 2009]

Systems of systems are “metasystems that must function as an integrated complex system toproduce desirable results. These metasystems are themselves comprised of multiple autonomousembedded complex systems that can be diverse in technology, context, operation, geography, and conceptual frame.”‖ [INCOSE 2009]

“A collection of systems that is deliberately integrated to achieve a purpose not generallyachievable by the individual systems functioning separately. The systems in a SoS are usuallydeveloped separately to accomplish their own specific purposes, and they could operateindependently in the same environment associated with the SoS. … The component systemsare physically distinct and could be geographically distributed. Typically their boundariesare crisp and stable, and the systems are bound together by well-defined interfaces. If anysystem is significantly changed or bypassed, the SoS generally continues to function, but itsoverall capability may be altered.”‖ [Kuras 2005]

“Systems of systems are large-scale concurrent and distributed systems the components of which are complex systems themselves.”‖ [Kotov 1997]

“A collection of systems that functions to achieve a purpose not generally achievable by the individual systems acting independently… Each system can operate independently and is managed primarily to accomplish its own separate purpose. A SoS can be geographically distributed, and can exhibit evolutionary development and/or emergent behavior.” [White 2005]

SoS Characteristics

SoS Characteristics

SoS Sub Systems Characteristics

Foundation vs. Derived SoS Characteristics

SoS Examples Hybrid Electric Car

SoS Examples National Smart Grid

Two other Sets of System Characteristics Quality

Quality Characteristics

Two other Sets of System Characteristics Programmatic Characteristics

Usage Improved:

Understanding Communication Risk Identification System Tracking Decision Making

Method Engineering

Conclusions Systems are variable according to:

System of Systems Characteristics Quality Characteristics Programmatic Characteristics

Method Engineering is a better way to engineer System of Systems

The definition of System of Systems is too general! It should have into account meter values in order to provide a clearer and more specific definition!