IMPLEMENTING A SYSTEMS ENGINEERING CULTURE WITHIN FEDERAL AGENCIES

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Authors
Mosher, Megan
Subjects
systems engineering
culture
public
federal agencies
value
return on investment
implementation
framework
change
initiative
complexity
government
Advisors
Whitcomb, Clifford A.
Date of Issue
2018-09
Date
Publisher
Monterey, CA; Naval Postgraduate School
Language
Abstract
This paper examines the potential value of implementing a systems engineering culture within federal agencies to maximize returns on limited resources and provides recommendations for implementing a systems engineering culture within constraints of the agency environment. Prior to executing a culture change initiative, agencies must conduct planning and analysis activities to objectively determine whether a systems engineering culture is likely to bring expected return on investment. Existing case studies and research literature on systems engineering and public organizational culture were analyzed to create a comprehensive approach for the federal setting. Analysis shows that systems engineering application can provide significant return on investment for agencies with high levels of program and project complexity, if it is appropriately resourced and supported by a systems engineering–oriented culture. Due to the unique constraints of the public arena, implementing a systems engineering culture within federal agencies requires following a culture change implementation framework specifically formulated for the federal agency environment. Agency leadership engagement and active participation play a key role in successful culture change.
Type
Thesis
Description
Department
Systems Engineering (SE)
Organization
Identifiers
NPS Report Number
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Distribution Statement
Approved for public release; distribution is unlimited.
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Copyright is reserved by the copyright owner.
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