In this episode of Applied Imperative, we continue exploring model-based systems engineering (MBSE) and how companies can effectively adopt and evolve with this framework. MBSE Evangelist Mark Sampson shares his insights into organizational challenges and the transformative potential of MBSE, offering cautionary tales and implementation strategies.
The column of shame
In his freshman year of college, Mark was introduced to a real-life example of what happens when a problem is discovered late in the product development process—the column of shame.
The cost of late discovery and design redo is a daunting task, resulting in a workaround discussion that leaves behind a failed architecture for future generations.
The column of shame is just one example of an architectural mistake that was discovered too late to correct, and it now serves as a beacon for the MBSE mantra of “Start integrated. Stay integrated.”
It is not just about tools or models. It is about mindset. Even doing nothing is a decision, and if your organization is not moving forward, it risks being left behind.
The integrated MBSE vision
To illustrate the power of MBSE, Mark introduces the “INCOSE vision,” a model-based practice that shows what an integrated digital thread will look like in the future.
Imagine a scenario where a regulatory change requires the braking distance of a vehicle to be reduced from 110 feet to 90 feet. With traditional methods, this might trigger months or years of impact analysis and back-and-forth coordination.
However, with a fully integrated MBSE system, that same change could prompt immediate model-based assessments across systems from hydraulics to cruise control to failure modes and more.
“You’re following the problem at the speed of thought,” Mark said. “There’s no one tool or domain that could have caught this—this is the value of integrated MBSE.”
What is my company’s MBSE maturity?
To help companies understand where they stand in their MBSE journey, Applied CAx developed an MBSE maturity assessment tool. This free online resource helps companies evaluate their current practices and identify clear next steps for improvement.
As you move from left to right, from disconnected to connected, the potential for faster and more confident decision-making grows exponentially.
Want to know more about MBSE and get a walk-through of the MBSE maturity assessment? Stream the full podcast episode on YouTube, Apple Podcasts, or Spotify.