A Theory and Process for Realizing Successful Systems

The paper introduces the essentials of an initial underlying theory of systems engineering. Its Fundamental System Success Theorem provides necessary and sufficient conditions for a system to be successful. These conditions involve determining and reconciling the value propositions of the system's success-critical stakeholders. Their elaboration leads to a System Success Realization Theorem, and a process that involves other components of the theory. These include utility theory, dependency theory, decision theory, and control theory. Their emphasis on stakeholder value provides a key distinction between system engineering's concern with stakeholder values and the essentially value-neutral orientation of other engineering disciplines.