Integration and interoperability an analysis to identify the attributes for system of systems

Abstract

A system of systems design is the development of multiple systems that individually provide various functions that collectively support a holistic functional capability. With the evolution of today's increased demand for heterogeneous systems that integrate to form complex system of systems, integration and interoperability are critical to cost, schedule, and performance during the lifecycle of a product. Successful integration and interoperability must be achieved for future system of systems. Enterprises must explore and discover the current and future techniques of building both human and technical systems that requires a deep knowledge and understanding of integration and interoperability. In support of this goal, this thesis, through research and analysis, develops a descriptive and prescriptive approach to assist management in achieving integration and interoperability. This thesis discovers the key attributes that result in an integrated and interoperable system and determines new procedures and techniques that can be recommended to achieve the system engineering required to support interoperability and ensure integration of system of systems.