Solving Complex Problems with Systems Thinking

What makes systems thinking superior to modern systems engineering? It starts with the constant feedback, which is needed more than ever in today’s digital world, but are engineers today embracing all that systems thinking has to offer?  In today’s episode, Thom Singer and Craig Brown are joined by Patrick Hillberg, author, speaker, and professor of engineering management at Oakland University called Product Lifecycle Management for a conversation about the importance of managing product lifecycles (rather than product lifecycle management) and the important ways that systems management can help solve a myriad of complex problems.    On today’s podcast, you will learn:   What does PLM stand for, exactly? The product life cycle can be sorted into four basic phases — create, build, support, and dispose.  PLM often refers to the technology that manages CAD.  PLM can also refer to Managing Product Lifecycles, which focuses on the cultural and organizational aspects that have an impact on a product.  MPL is just as important considering how products are built is heavily dependent on how the organization which builds that product is structured.  With mechanical, electrical, and software groups working on every product, high functioning collaboration between the three is critical.    Systems engineering is a misunderstood skill The complexity of products demands higher management requirements.  Understanding and defining these complex views can enhance the effectiveness of the developing systems.   Systems and products are not synonyms — each has its own set of complex requirements.    Solving complex problems with systems thinking Both systems thinking and systems engineering are necessary, and they’re on two different axes.  One system is not an extension of the other.  In reinforcing feedback loops, a small amount of growth enforces the overall likelihood of growth.  Systems engineering techniques break complex problems down into smaller pieces.    The need to embrace systems thinking  Systems thinking is clearly better than modern systems engineering simply because of the constant feedback it offers.  Young engineers today are readily embracing all that systems thinking has to offer.  To deal with complexity we have to deal with the organizational structure that is building these products. Reducing complexity is a key step in optimizing systems thinking.    Continue the conversation with us within the Digital Enterprise Society Community at www.DigitalEnterpriseSociety.org.   Digital Download: Virtual Round-Table Series