International Journal of System of Systems Engineering 

About: International Journal of System of Systems Engineering is an academic journal published by Inderscience Publishers. The journal publishes majorly in the area(s): Computer science & System of systems. It has an ISSN identifier of 1748-0671. Over the lifetime, 196 publications have been published receiving 1471 citations. The journal is also known as: Int. j. system of systems engineering & System of systems engineering.

System of systems engineering: an emerging multidiscipline

Abstract: In this paper, we present System of Systems Engineering (SOSE) as a developing multidiscipline, spanning across and drawing from a variety of disciplines to address complex situations; situations are characterised by ambiguity, high uncertainty and emergence. This paper is organised to: (1) provide an assessment of the current state of SOSE field development, (2) suggest the nature of complex issues for which traditional approaches are falling short to include the corresponding challenges facing SOSE development, (3) describe two perspectives of the SOSE response to complex situations and (4) establish an emerging paradigm for SOSE as a multidiscipline based on current research. This paper concludes with the implications for further development of research and practice for SOSE.

Systems of systems engineering: prospects and challenges for the emerging field

Abstract: System of systems engineering (SoSE) is a field that remains in the embryonic stages of development. The work presented in this volume provides a methodological approach, grounded in foundations of systems theory, to perform SoSE. However, further development of the field must be predicated on understanding critical distinctions emerging and bring focus to the challenges and prospects for further development. The purpose of this paper is to develop a perspective of the state of the SoSE field and identify challenges for future evolution. To achieve this purpose, the paper is organised to explore four primary areas. First, the literature is reviewed to provide an account of the current state of the field. Second, an organising framework is presented to structure understanding of field development. Third, a set of challenges to forward movement of the field is offered. Fourth, the paper concludes with reflections on the SoSE methodology presented in this volume and implications for further development of the SoSE field.

Systems theory as a foundation for governance of complex systems

Abstract: The broad set of propositions identified in systems literature (circa 1900–2000s) provides an adequate, largely comprehensive subset of the complete set of all systems theory propositions. Discoverers' induction can then be applied to integrate common ideas among propositions in order to produce a set of generalised laws (axioms). A proposal for a systems theory construct resting on an axiomatic set supported by unified systems theory propositions was presented by Adams et al. (2014). This paper refines the work of Adams et al. using discoverer's induction and further describes the axioms provided and their role in complex systems.

Complex system governance: concept, challenges, and emerging research

Abstract: The purpose of this paper is to explore an emerging paradigm and implications for complex system governance. Although ‘governance’ has been taken as a ‘good thing’, we seek more rigorous development of governance as a multidisciplinary construct. Following an introduction to the complex system problem domain three primary objectives are pursued. First, three fields, governance, management cybernetics, and systems theory are examined for contributions to the emerging complex system governance field. Second, an emerging paradigm for complex system governance is developed. This developmental paradigm establishes a preliminary basis for complex system governance. Third, a set of implications for research and development is suggested to accelerate advancement of the complex system governance field. Emphasis is placed on the potential that this field offers for practitioners who must deal with the increasingly complex systems and their constituent problems. The paper concludes with research challenges to push the emerging field forward.

Complex system governance requires systems thinking - how to find systems thinkers

Abstract: Systems thinking offers a particularly useful worldview for dealing with increasing complexities faced by individuals. This paper explores the nature, assessment, and implications that systems thinking holds for individuals challenged by the shifting landscape of modern complex system governance. Following an introduction that identifies the main attributes of complex systems faced by individuals who engage in governance activities, three major themes are developed: 1) exploration of the concept of systems thinking; 2) suggestion of how enhanced systems thinking can increase the capability of individuals to more effectively design for system governance; 3) a strategic framework and initial findings for application of an instrument for assessment of the level of systems thinking for an individual. Systems thinking is suggested as a critical capability for individuals who must design, analyse, and transform complex system governance and address its derivative problems. Effectiveness in systems thinking is a critical skill for addressing some of the most vexing problems of the 21st century. This paper summarises the findings of a systems thinking instrument developed to identify the systems skills individuals need to engage complex system governance. The paper concludes with future research and application of the systems thinking instrument to better understand complex system governance.