Agile Systems Engineering

Model-Based Systems Engineering #MBSE has become increasingly important in recent years. MBSE is an efficient method for developing complex systems and enables better communication between different disciplines and stakeholders. Especially in the field of #automotive, there is no getting around #systemsengineering anymore.

However, despite the benefits that MBSE brings, there are also challenges, particularly in relation to the skills shortage in this area. This article discusses the relationship between MBSE and skills shortages and how #Agile methods can provide solutions.

The Importance of Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE)

Model-Based Systems Engineering is a methodological approach that enables the use of models to design, analyze, plan, implement, and validate systems. By using models, engineers and developers can better understand complex systems, predict their behavior, and perform optimizations.

MBSE has established itself in various industries, such as aerospace, automotive, smart grid development, and Industry 4.0, and the method has the potential to make #systemdevelopment more efficient and reliable.

Skills shortage in Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE).

Although MBSE offers many benefits, there is a shortage of skilled workers in the field. This shortage is due to several factors:

Knowledge gap: MBSE requires specialized knowledge and skills that are not adequately taught in many traditional engineering disciplines. There is a gap between what is taught in education and what is needed in industry.

Complexity: Familiarization with MBSE can be challenging due to the complexity of the methods and tools, especially for entry-level professionals.

Interdisciplinary collaboration: MBSE requires experts from different disciplines to work together. The lack of trained professionals in related fields also contributes to the skills shortage.

Lack of focus on core competencies: MBSE specialists as project managers

Another important aspect that exacerbates the shortage of specialists in MBSE is the fact that qualified MBSE specialists are often assigned as project managers and thus work outside their actual competencies. This happens for a number of reasons:

Lack of adequate managers: companies often face the problem of not having enough qualified managers to lead complex projects. As a result, MBSE experts are pushed into the role of project manager because of their expertise and experience, even though their strengths lie in technical work and analysis.

Lack of understanding of MBSE roles: In many organizations, there is an insufficient understanding of the specific roles and responsibilities of MBSE specialists. This results in them being called upon to perform tasks that do not match their actual expertise.

Increased workload: When MBSE specialists are responsible for both technical and leadership tasks, their workload increases, which can lead to lower efficiency. This can also result in less time for them to apply and develop their MBSE skills, causing the quality of system development to suffer.

Possible solutions

To reverse this trend and combat the skills shortage, companies should take the following steps:

Role clarification: organizations should clearly define the roles of MBSE specialists and project managers to ensure that each employee is assigned according to their skills and competencies.

Leadership training: organizations should invest in training leaders who are capable of leading projects while having the necessary understanding of MBSE methods and tools.

Team structure: organizations should ensure that their teams are balanced and have both technical experts and competent leaders. This can help MBSE specialists focus on their core competencies and provide the necessary support to project managers.

Solution approaches using Agile methods and Agile coaches.

Agile methodologies and the introduction of Agile Coaches can help address the skills shortage in MBSE and improve and professionalize the quality of project management. By using Agile methods and Agile Coaches, companies can take internal measures to combat the skills shortage and avoid having to use MBSE specialists as project managers:

Agile Coaches as Project Managers

Agile coaches can take on the role of project manager, allowing MBSE specialists to focus on their actual expertise. Agile coaches have the necessary leadership skills and understanding of agile methods to effectively manage a project while fostering collaboration between different disciplines.

Introducing Agile Methods

Implementing agile methods such as Scrum or Kanban allows teams to be more flexible and responsive. This fosters collaboration and allows them to respond quickly to change and realign priorities.

Cross-functional teams

Agile working encourages the formation of cross-functional teams where MBSE specialists work closely with other disciplines. This enables better distribution of responsibilities and more efficient collaboration.

Continuous improvement

Agile methods rely on the principle of continuous improvement, which allows teams to regularly review and adapt their ways of working and processes. This allows MBSE specialists to continuously develop their knowledge and skills and optimize the quality of their work.

Focus on training and development

In agile environments, special emphasis is placed on employee training and development. Organizations adopting agile methodologies should invest in training and professional development activities to continuously enhance the knowledge and skills of their MBSE specialists and other team members.

Conclusion

The skills shortage in Model-Based Systems Engineering is a challenge that companies must address to ensure the quality and efficiency of their systems development.

By implementing agile methods and using agile coaches, companies can find solutions to address the skills shortage, focus MBSE specialists on their core competencies, and improve collaboration between different disciplines.