System engineers often optimize individual systems with known stakeholders and requirements. This course will teach the student how to properly approach System of Systems (SoS) challenges and assess the entire network of systems interacting together through applied system-of-systems thinking. Students will engage in integrated case studies where a single system is initially introduced and system-engineered. An additional system is then incorporated for a SoS engineering view and students must assess the impacts and develop an approach to implement SoS thinking to a SoS program.

Specific topics should include:

• SoS Challenges and Complexity
• System of Systems Thinking Approach
• Capabilities versus Requirements
• Operational Focused Thinking
• System of Systems Perspective
• System of SystemsThinking Tools/Implementation
• Engineering and Design Considerations
• Incorporating Individual Systems into a SoS Program

Earn 1.4 Continuing Education Units (CEUs).