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William Van Atten
In this course, you will learn what a systems engineer does. Following the conceptual foundations from The Need for Systems Engineering, you will perform requirements analysis and functional analysis on engineering programs. You will learn how to perform a trade study using a methodical, quantitative approach that is universal in application. This course also covers preparing design reviews, focusing on coordinating the inputs of multiple engineering disciplines into a cohesive description of the design approach.
Read more
In this course, you will learn what a systems engineer does. Following the conceptual foundations from The Need for Systems Engineering, you will perform requirements analysis and functional analysis on engineering programs. You will learn how to perform a trade study using a methodical, quantitative approach that is universal in application. This course also covers preparing design reviews, focusing on coordinating the inputs of multiple engineering disciplines into a cohesive description of the design approach.
Read more
In this course, you will learn what a systems engineer does. Following the conceptual foundations from The Need for Systems Engineering, you will perform requirements analysis and functional analysis on engineering programs. You will learn how to perform a trade study using a methodical, quantitative approach that is universal in application. This course also covers preparing design reviews, focusing on coordinating the inputs of multiple engineering disciplines into a cohesive description of the design approach.
This course can be taken for academic credit as part of CU Boulder’s Master of Engineering in Engineering Management (ME-EM) degree offered on the Coursera platform. The ME-EM is designed to help engineers, scientists, and technical professionals move into leadership and management roles in the engineering and technical sectors. With performance-based admissions and no application process, the ME-EM is ideal for individuals with a broad range of undergraduate education and/or professional experience. Learn more about the ME-EM program at https://www.coursera.org/degrees/me-engineering-management-boulder.
Register for this course and see more details by visiting:
OpenCourser.com/course/f181j3/applying
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What's inside
Syllabus
Requirements and Performance Metrics
We will begin the course by revisiting the topic of requirements. Now that we know what requirements are and how to write them, we will examine what requirements management is all about. On a long-duration development program, we also need a way to measure our progress from a technical standpoint toward requirement compliance. A great tool for this is to think of it in terms of Measures of Performance. At the tactical level on a design team, we will execute that by establishing a small number of Technical Performance Measures, or TPMs. These important performance attributes will keep the design team focused on the customer's most important requirements and they will help assess our progress toward meeting those objectives.
Read more
Syllabus
Requirements and Performance Metrics
We will begin the course by revisiting the topic of requirements. Now that we know what requirements are and how to write them, we will examine what requirements management is all about. On a long-duration development program, we also need a way to measure our progress from a technical standpoint toward requirement compliance. A great tool for this is to think of it in terms of Measures of Performance. At the tactical level on a design team, we will execute that by establishing a small number of Technical Performance Measures, or TPMs. These important performance attributes will keep the design team focused on the customer's most important requirements and they will help assess our progress toward meeting those objectives.
Read more
Traffic lights
Traffic lights
Read about what's good
what should give you pause and
possible dealbreakers
Introduces concepts that are highly relevant in engineering management
Presents various engineering disciplines and their relevance to systems engineering
Provides a structured approach for requirements analysis and functional analysis
Focuses on preparing design reviews and coordinating inputs from multiple engineering disciplines
Covers various audits, such as Functional and Physical Configuration Audits, to ensure documentation accuracy
Offers a comprehensive overview of the systems engineering design process
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Reviews summary
Practical systems engineering for design
According to students, this course offers a practical and insightful overview of applying systems engineering principles to the design process. Many learners found the instructor's real-world experience and clear explanations to be a significant strength, particularly the insights derived from their time in the Marine Corps and aerospace industry. The course excels in demystifying concepts like requirements analysis, trade studies, and design reviews, providing a solid theoretical foundation complemented by actionable strategies. While it caters well to professionals seeking to transition into management roles, some suggest a desire for even more hands-on exercises or case studies to deepen the practical application.
Best suited for those with engineering background.
"I found the pace perfect for a working professional, assuming some prior engineering exposure."
"This course is ideal for technical professionals looking to step into management, not necessarily absolute beginners."
"Coming from an engineering background, the course quickly built on familiar concepts, which was helpful."
Thorough introduction to SE design process.
"The modules on design reviews (SRR, PDR, CDR) were particularly well-structured and clear."
"I found the overall tying together of requirements, design, and manufacturability to be very coherent."
"This course provides a solid foundation for understanding the full systems engineering lifecycle."
Actionable strategies for real-world challenges.
"I can immediately apply the methodical trade study approach to my current projects at work."
"The course clearly explained how to perform functional analysis and requirements management in a practical way."
"It gave me practical tools and strategies I can apply immediately to my work."
Instructor's deep knowledge and practical insights.
"The instructor's experience, especially the F/A-18 stories, made the concepts really stick and feel real."
"I appreciated the real-world applications and leadership traits shared, directly from an experienced professional."
"His ability to simplify complex topics with practical examples was invaluable for my understanding."
Wish for more hands-on practice and case studies.
"Could benefit from more interactive exercises or perhaps a larger case study to apply all concepts."
"While the theory is strong, I would have loved more hands-on activities to reinforce the learning."
"The course is very informative, but I wish there were more practical application exercises."
Activities
Be better prepared
before
your course. Deepen your understanding
during
and
after
it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered
in Applying Systems Engineering to the Design Process with these
activities:
Read 'Systems Engineering: Principles and Practice' by Alexander Kossiakoff
Show steps
Enhance understanding of systems engineering principles and best practices by reading a comprehensive text.
View
Systems Engineering Principles and Practice...
on Amazon
Show steps
-
Purchase or obtain the book
-
Set aside dedicated time for reading
-
Take notes and highlight key concepts
Attend Industry Webinars on Systems Engineering
Show steps
Participate in industry webinars to learn from experts and gain insights into real-world systems engineering practices.
Browse courses on
Systems Engineering
Show steps
-
Identify relevant industry webinars
-
Register for webinars and attend live or recorded sessions
Requirements Analysis Exercises
Show steps
Practice writing and analyzing requirements to improve understanding and ensure completeness and consistency.
Browse courses on
Requirements Analysis
Show steps
-
Identify stakeholders and gather requirements
-
Classify and prioritize requirements
-
Develop use cases and scenarios
-
Create a requirements traceability matrix
One other activity
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all four activities
Design a Systems Engineering Plan
Show steps
Develop a plan outlining the systems engineering process for a hypothetical project, incorporating the concepts learned in the course.
Browse courses on
Systems Engineering
Show steps
-
Identify project scope and objectives
-
Define system requirements
-
Create a functional decomposition
-
Conduct trade studies and select design options
-
Develop a system architecture
Read 'Systems Engineering: Principles and Practice' by Alexander Kossiakoff
Show steps
Enhance understanding of systems engineering principles and best practices by reading a comprehensive text.
View
Systems Engineering Principles and Practice...
on Amazon
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Purchase or obtain the book
- Set aside dedicated time for reading
- Take notes and highlight key concepts
Attend Industry Webinars on Systems Engineering
Show steps
Participate in industry webinars to learn from experts and gain insights into real-world systems engineering practices.
Browse courses on
Systems Engineering
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Identify relevant industry webinars
- Register for webinars and attend live or recorded sessions
Requirements Analysis Exercises
Show steps
Practice writing and analyzing requirements to improve understanding and ensure completeness and consistency.
Browse courses on
Requirements Analysis
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Identify stakeholders and gather requirements
- Classify and prioritize requirements
- Develop use cases and scenarios
- Create a requirements traceability matrix
One other activity
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all four activities
Design a Systems Engineering Plan
Show steps
Develop a plan outlining the systems engineering process for a hypothetical project, incorporating the concepts learned in the course.
Browse courses on
Systems Engineering
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Identify project scope and objectives
- Define system requirements
- Create a functional decomposition
- Conduct trade studies and select design options
- Develop a system architecture
Career center
Learners who complete Applying Systems Engineering to the Design Process will develop knowledge and skills
that may be useful to these careers:
Systems Engineer
Systems Engineer
Systems Engineers are responsible for the overall design and integration of complex systems, such as aircraft, spacecraft, and medical devices. This course can help you build a strong foundation in the principles of systems engineering, which are essential for success in this field. You will learn how to define and manage requirements, conduct trade studies, and perform design reviews. This knowledge will be invaluable as you work on complex systems projects.
Aerospace Engineer
Aerospace Engineer
Aerospace Engineers are responsible for the design, development, testing, and operation of aircraft, spacecraft, and other aerospace systems. This course can help you build a strong foundation in the principles of systems engineering, which are essential for success in this field. You will learn how to define and manage requirements, conduct trade studies, and perform design reviews. This knowledge will be invaluable as you work on complex aerospace projects.
Mechanical Engineer
Mechanical Engineer
Mechanical Engineers design, develop, and test mechanical systems, such as engines, turbines, and robotics. This course can help you build a strong foundation in the principles of systems engineering, which are essential for success in this field. You will learn how to define and manage requirements, conduct trade studies, and perform design reviews. This knowledge will be invaluable as you work on complex mechanical systems.
Software Engineer
Software Engineer
Software Engineers design, develop, and test software systems. This course can help you build a strong foundation in the principles of systems engineering, which are essential for success in this field. You will learn how to define and manage requirements, conduct trade studies, and perform design reviews. This knowledge will be invaluable as you work on complex software systems projects.
Electrical Engineer
Electrical Engineer
Electrical Engineers design, develop, and test electrical systems, such as power plants, electrical grids, and telecommunications systems. This course can help you build a strong foundation in the principles of systems engineering, which are essential for success in this field. You will learn how to define and manage requirements, conduct trade studies, and perform design reviews. This knowledge will be invaluable as you work on complex electrical systems projects.
Civil Engineer
Civil Engineer
Civil Engineers design, develop, and test civil infrastructure, such as roads, bridges, and buildings. This course can help you build a strong foundation in the principles of systems engineering, which are essential for success in this field. You will learn how to define and manage requirements, conduct trade studies, and perform design reviews. This knowledge will be invaluable as you work on complex civil infrastructure projects.
Chemical Engineer
Chemical Engineer
Chemical Engineers design, develop, and test chemical processes and products. This course can help you build a strong foundation in the principles of systems engineering, which are essential for success in this field. You will learn how to define and manage requirements, conduct trade studies, and perform design reviews. This knowledge will be invaluable as you work on complex chemical engineering projects.
Biomedical Engineer
Biomedical Engineer
Biomedical Engineers design, develop, and test biomedical devices and systems. This course can help you build a strong foundation in the principles of systems engineering, which are essential for success in this field. You will learn how to define and manage requirements, conduct trade studies, and perform design reviews. This knowledge will be invaluable as you work on complex biomedical engineering projects.
Industrial Engineer
Industrial Engineer
Industrial Engineers design, develop, and test industrial processes and systems. This course can help you build a strong foundation in the principles of systems engineering, which are essential for success in this field. You will learn how to define and manage requirements, conduct trade studies, and perform design reviews. This knowledge will be invaluable as you work on complex industrial engineering projects.
Manufacturing Engineer
Manufacturing Engineer
Manufacturing Engineers design, develop, and test manufacturing processes and systems. This course can help you build a strong foundation in the principles of systems engineering, which are essential for success in this field. You will learn how to define and manage requirements, conduct trade studies, and perform design reviews. This knowledge will be invaluable as you work on complex manufacturing engineering projects.
Quality Engineer
Quality Engineer
Quality Engineers design, develop, and test quality control systems and processes. This course can help you build a strong foundation in the principles of systems engineering, which are essential for success in this field. You will learn how to define and manage requirements, conduct trade studies, and perform design reviews. This knowledge will be invaluable as you work on complex quality engineering projects.
Reliability Engineer
Reliability Engineer
Reliability Engineers design, develop, and test reliability systems and processes. This course can help you build a strong foundation in the principles of systems engineering, which are essential for success in this field. You will learn how to define and manage requirements, conduct trade studies, and perform design reviews. This knowledge will be invaluable as you work on complex reliability engineering projects.
Safety Engineer
Safety Engineer
Safety Engineers design, develop, and test safety systems and processes. This course can help you build a strong foundation in the principles of systems engineering, which are essential for success in this field. You will learn how to define and manage requirements, conduct trade studies, and perform design reviews. This knowledge will be invaluable as you work on complex safety engineering projects.
Project Manager
Project Manager
Project Managers are responsible for the overall planning, execution, and control of projects. This course can help you build a strong foundation in the principles of systems engineering, which are essential for success in this field. You will learn how to define and manage requirements, conduct trade studies, and perform design reviews. This knowledge will be invaluable as you work on complex projects.
Engineering Manager
Engineering Manager
Engineering Managers are responsible for the overall management of engineering teams and projects. This course can help you build a strong foundation in the principles of systems engineering, which are essential for success in this field. You will learn how to define and manage requirements, conduct trade studies, and perform design reviews. This knowledge will be invaluable as you work on complex engineering projects.
For more career information including salaries, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/f181j3/applying
Reading list
We've selected 11 books
that we think will supplement your
learning. Use these to
develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a
deeper understanding of the topics covered in
Applying Systems Engineering to the Design Process.
Provides a comprehensive overview of systems engineering fundamentals, including topics such as requirements analysis, functional analysis, and trade studies. It valuable reference for anyone who wants to learn more about the systems engineering process.
Provides a practical guide to systems architecting, including topics such as system design, integration, and testing. It valuable resource for anyone who wants to learn more about the systems engineering process.
Provides a comprehensive overview of design for excellence, including topics such as design thinking, creativity, and innovation. It valuable resource for anyone who wants to learn more about the systems engineering process.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the NASA Systems Engineering Handbook, including topics such as systems engineering principles, practices, and tools. It valuable reference for anyone who wants to learn more about the systems engineering process.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the Defense Acquisition Guidebook (DAG), including topics such as systems engineering principles, practices, and tools. It valuable reference for anyone who wants to learn more about the systems engineering process.
Save
Humorous science fiction novel that explores the themes of life, the universe, and everything. It fun and lighthearted read that can provide a break from the more technical aspects of systems engineering.
Save
Science fiction novel that tells the story of an astronaut who is stranded on Mars. It gripping and suspenseful read that can provide a different perspective on the challenges of systems engineering.
Science fiction novel that tells the story of a young boy who is recruited to train for a war against an alien race. It thought-provoking and philosophical read that can provide a different perspective on the challenges of systems engineering.
Science fiction novel that tells the story of a group of scientists who are trying to prevent an alien invasion. It complex and challenging read that can provide a different perspective on the challenges of systems engineering.
Science fiction novel that tells the story of a young man who must lead his people against an oppressive empire. It complex and challenging read that can provide a different perspective on the challenges of systems engineering.
Fantasy novel that tells the story of a group of hobbits who must travel to Mount Doom to destroy the One Ring. It complex and challenging read that can provide a different perspective on the challenges of systems engineering.
For more information about how these books relate to this course, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/f181j3/applying
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Rating
4.8
Effort
Approx. 21 hours
Level
Introductory
Via
Coursera
Institution
University of Colorado Boulder
Instructor
William Van Atten
Language
English
Transcript
tiếng Việt
This course belongs to a
collection
called
Introduction to Systems Engineering. It's comprised of three courses:
- Applying Systems Engineering to the Design Process (viewing)
- The Need for Systems Engineering
- Systems Engineering and Program Management
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