Successfully delivering complex, multi-disciplinary engineering projects can be very challenging. Delivering these types of projects without understanding and managing the interaction between the various engineering disciplines involved can lead to project failure.
It is critical when executing engineering projects to take a Systems Engineering approach to the development and execution of the technical deliverables. A Systems Engineering approach to projects is an interdisciplinary method that involves understanding the interactions between complex systems and the components and disciplines involved. For example, large mechanical equipment and their operational loadings may require upgrades to electrical and structural components beyond what was originally anticipated. Design and installation of certain instruments and electrical equipment may require adherence to codes and standards in engineering disciplines other than electrical and instrumentation. Planning, communicating, and collaborating across different disciplines are key to the successful delivery of any engineering project.
The traditional Project Management triangle has three project constraints at its corners: Scope, Cost, and Schedule. The quality of the project and its results (typically shown within the triangle) are constrained by these elements. While this visually represents the relationships of these constraints, a Systems Engineering approach allows one to put the appropriate technical context behind each of these when planning the project. It allows for the prioritization of technical deliverables that may be required as inputs for other activities and can identify those scope items that could be done in parallel, to optimize both Cost and Schedule. Most importantly, it allows the Project Manager to understand the overall impact of the decisions and changes that occur during the project life cycle.
Although planning is essential to any successful project, projects are rarely executed exactly as originally planned. Change management becomes critical to the successful delivery of all projects. A Systems Engineering approach to project management will ensure that interdisciplinary communication is present to navigate the changes that arise during project delivery and ensure that the result meets the client’s needs.
A Project Services team that utilizes a Systems Engineering approach will help to deliver project success and navigate changes as they occur. At March Consulting Associates, our Purpose Statement is “Exemplifying Excellence in Engineering by contributing to the success of our Clients, our Team, and our Communities.” This Excellence in Engineering includes not only our engineering and design teams but also our Project Engineers, Project Managers, Project Sponsors, and Advisors, who all work together to bring technical expertise to ensure the success of our clients.
Contributing Author: Joseph Glasofer
Senior Project Manager