The Case for Change: The Need for Stronger Engineering Program Performance

Abstract

Programs to develop and deliver new and enhanced defense systems require strong technical and business management. That requirement means that program managers and chief systems engineers must work closely together as program leadership to enable program team collaboration using aligned tools, practices, and capabilities. While there is plenty of published material focused on enhancing the performance of each individual discipline, very little published matter spotlights how the two disciplines align their efforts and work collaboratively. Extensive research conducted by MIT's Consortium for Engineering Program Management (CEPE), the Project Management Institute (PMI), and the International Council on Systems Engineering (INCOSE) over the last five years has identified opportunities and approaches for improving engineering program management. This paper presents highlights from the research and key factors in integrating systems engineering and program management.