Masters Theses

Abstract

Work for this thesis focuses on managing complexity within complex adaptive sociotechnical systems by using model based systems engineering and virtual engineering tools. The hypothesis of the work is that integrated virtual models can be used to increase the understanding of these complex adaptive sociotechnical systems, resulting in a reduction in the perceived complexity. This was tested by the use of a two factor survey given to experts of a system (the customer and members of the model design team) and to a target user-group. This group received a demonstration and had hands on experience with a preliminary model of the same system. Results of the survey show that new system designers using an integrated virtual modeling tool view the system as less complex than experts involved with designing the same system without using a tool. Further data is required to support this conclusion, and a plan for gathering more data is described. The application of this method to an emergency response system is then discussed to show how it can be applied to other complex sociotechnical systems and guidelines for applying this methodology are proposed.

Advisor(s)

Corns, Steven

Committee Member(s)

Murray, Susan L.
Long, Suzanna, 1961-

Department(s)

Engineering Management and Systems Engineering

Degree Name

M.S. in Systems Engineering

Publisher

Missouri University of Science and Technology

Publication Date

Fall 2012

Pagination

ix, 79 pages

Note about bibliography

Includes bibliographical references (pages 49-50).

Rights

© 2012 Lori Ann Miller, All rights reserved.

Document Type

Thesis - Open Access

File Type

text

Language

English

Subject Headings

Systems engineering -- Simulation methods
Military camps
Emergency management
Model-based reasoning

Thesis Number

T 10095

Electronic OCLC #

828860551

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