An interview with... ChatGPT

Introduction

As an engineer and technologist, I've been exploring the capabilities of developing artificial intelligence services. In this article, I submit a mock question and answer style interview generated by ChatGPT for your review. With a few short prompts (see below) I was able to produce compelling copy reflecting a crafted persona, fictitious name, organisation, and experience. As capabilities abound all we will be prompted to consider associated opportunities and challenges in deployment. Do let me know your ideas and thoughts in the comments below.

Interview

Rob: Can you start by introducing yourself and your role in the industry?

David Scott: Of course, I'm David Scott, and I am the Director of Global Systems Engineering Solutions (GSES), a leading systems engineering consultancy. I've been in the industry for several years now, and my specialty is the fusion of systems thinking and project management.

Rob: Can you share some of your career highlights and challenges in the field of systems engineering?

David Scott: I have been fortunate enough to lead several high-profile projects throughout my career, including the implementation of a new air traffic control system for a leading European airport and the design and delivery of a state-of-the-art water treatment plant. These projects have been both challenging and rewarding, providing me with invaluable experiences and insights into the industry.

One of the biggest challenges that I've faced is balancing technical excellence with practical considerations. This requires a deep understanding of the systems being developed, as well as an appreciation for the broader context in which they operate. It's essential for systems engineers to have a comprehensive understanding of international standards, such as those developed by the International Council on Systems Engineering (INCOSE), as well as a strong appreciation for the needs and expectations of stakeholders.

Rob: Given your experience in systems engineering, how important do you believe requirements are in the successful delivery of a project? Can you provide an industry example to illustrate this?

David Scott: Requirements play a crucial role in the successful delivery of a project. They form the foundation for the design and development of systems, and it's essential that they are well-defined, clearly understood, and agreed upon by all stakeholders. In my experience, it's not uncommon for requirements to change during the course of a project, and it's the responsibility of the systems engineer to manage these changes and ensure that the project remains on track.

As an example, consider a recent project that I worked on for a major telecommunications company. The project involved the design and implementation of a new network infrastructure, and it was essential that the requirements were well-defined and agreed upon from the outset. During the course of the project, there were several changes to the requirements, but we were able to manage these changes effectively, through regular communication with the client and a rigorous change control process. This ensured that the project was delivered on time and within budget, and that the final solution met the needs of the client and their customers.

Rob: How do you stay up-to-date with the latest developments in the field and adapt to changing circumstances?

David Scott: Another key challenge is the need to continuously adapt to changing circumstances. As our world becomes increasingly complex and interdependent, it's essential for systems engineers to stay up-to-date with the latest developments in their field and to be flexible in their approach. I attend industry conferences and events regularly, and I am also a member of several professional organizations, such as the Association for Project Management (APM).

Rob: What advice would you give to aspiring systems engineers?

David Scott: For aspiring systems engineers, my advice would be to develop a broad range of skills, including both technical and interpersonal skills. It's also important to seek out opportunities to work on diverse projects, as this will help to build a well-rounded understanding of the industry and provide exposure to different perspectives and approaches.

Rob: Finally, can you talk about some of the contemporary challenges facing engineering and society and the role that systems engineers play in addressing these challenges?

David Scott: There are many contemporary challenges facing engineering and society today, from climate change and sustainability to the rise of artificial intelligence and the changing nature of work. It's clear that engineers have a critical role to play in shaping our future, and systems engineers will play a key role in addressing these challenges and creating a more sustainable and equitable world.

Links for further information:

• International Council on Systems Engineering (INCOSE): https://www.incose.org/
• Association for Project Management (APM): https://www.apm.org.uk/
• Engineering UK: https://www.engineeringuk.com/
• Institute of Engineering and Technology (IET): https://www.theiet.org/

My scripted prompt

I'd like you to draft a question and answer style interview to feature in a leading major projects magazine. You can address me (interviewer) as Rob. I'd like you (as interviewee) to role play as an experienced director of a systems engineering consultancy. I'd like you to be personable and professional in your tone. In opening the interview, please give yourself a random name and comment on interview surroundings and context. Please introduce yourself, industry and fields of practise and supply select career highlights and challenges as part of your responses. Please reference leading uk bodies, international standards and communities. Note systems thinking and project management fusion practise opportunities. Conclude the interview with recommendations for aspiring systems engineers and contemporary complex challenges in engineering and society. Include more information style links at the end.