Do "Differences in Speed" Affect the Process of Integrating Program Management and Systems Engineering?

EasyChair Preprint no. 1406

Abstract

When it comes to implementing large-scale engineering programs, collaborative processes are needed in order to integrate strategic and management objectives with the technical realities of the program. Those collaborative processes often fall short because communication between Program Management and Systems Engineering is not sufficient. This study proposes to shed some light on this communication problem. This study will address the question of whether or not communication problems result because of differences in how the two disciplines relate to and manage time.

When it comes to implementing large-scale engineering programs, collaborative processes are needed in order to integrate strategic and management objectives with the technical realities of the program. Those collaborative processes often fall short because communication between Program Management and Systems Engineering is not sufficient. This study proposes to shed some light on this communication problem. This study will address the question of whether or not communication problems result because of differences in how the two disciplines relate to and manage time. Specifically, it will address: 1) differences in working speeds, 2) time frame preferences, and 3) differences in the rate of change and the ability to adjust to change of the two disciplines. Each discipline has different roles and responsibilities. Systems Engineers have concerns dealing with product life cycles. Program Managers have concerns dealing with quarterly financial reporting. Due to these differences, it is likely that their behaviors are different in terms of reporting, responding and particularly in terms of relating to deadlines. By gaining greater understanding about what is behind communication gaps, measures can be taken to improve the integration process between Program Managers and Systems Engineers.

Keyphrases: Change Management, collaboration process, communication, Integration, Leadership, performance management, Program Management, Systems Engineering, timing, Working Speed

@Booklet{EasyChair:1406,
  author = {Julia Taylor},
  title = {Do "Differences in Speed" Affect the Process of Integrating Program Management and Systems Engineering?},
  howpublished = {EasyChair Preprint no. 1406},

  year = {EasyChair, 2019}}