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2 A “Systems of Systems” Perspective of the Year 2000 Problem
Author(s) -
Walker Loren Mark
Publication year - 1999
Publication title -
incose international symposium
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
ISSN - 2334-5837
DOI - 10.1002/j.2334-5837.1999.tb00136.x
Subject(s) - computer science , certification , interface (matter) , business process reengineering , software engineering , key (lock) , perspective (graphical) , process management , systems engineering , engineering management , engineering , computer security , operations management , operating system , bubble , maximum bubble pressure method , lean manufacturing , artificial intelligence , political science , law
A “System of Systems” perspective of the Year 2000 (Y2K) problem is crucial for any organization that owns or operates computer‐based systems that interface with other systems, especially large multi‐computer system programs. This paper focuses on the requirements, multiple systems and interfaces, functional analysis, threads, testing, and multi‐organizational Y2K coordination issues inherent in all large Y2K certification programs. In addition, the positive long‐term benefits of reengineering and documenting the program's functionality, physical architecture and products are also discussed. Special emphasis is placed on the importance of “System Threads”, key to capturing the essence of very complex system interface issues and the prioritization of resource allocations and organizational activities. The importance of preparing for, identifying and fixing problems that remain after January 1, 2000 are also examined. Addressing these topics is essential to assure that, through end‐to‐end operation, large programs consisting of many computer‐based systems, will have a reasonably high level of confidence that: 1) the systems will operate, 2) no corruption of data will occur within the systems, and 3) output products will continue to meet customer expectations. This paper is based on the author's application of the topics discussed to a large multi computer based program, consisting of 100s of unique computer systems located at several locations. The concepts discussed were initiated in 1998 and are proving to be highly effective in meeting the program's Y2K certification needs.