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  3. Systems Integration

Systems Integration

Whether embarking on a new transport scheme or keeping programs on track, Systems Integration (SI) is needed to manage the vast amount of information, the coordination of systems and the stakeholders involved in every effort.

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Creating clarity amid complexity with SI:D³

SI:D3 is a field-proven approach that creates clarity amid the complexity particular to each endeavor. An established framework uses proven systems engineering (SE) techniques to connect technical management with established program management processes. This alignment results in optimized system performance, operational capability and realization of end-user benefits.

The genesis of the WSP SI capability is the delivery of the Victoria Line Upgrade (London Underground) and the early setup of the Thameslink Program (Network Rail) in the United Kingdom, subsequently captured into our framework.  SI:D3 has since been continually improved through lessons learned from our projects around the world over more than a decade.

The SI:D3 approach is structured yet provides a flexible, immersive and collaborative framework to help program directors and leaders clearly understand the complexity of mega transport projects to bring about targeted outcomes. A key aspect of the SI:D3 approach is developing a common purpose and clear governance to help all stakeholders see the program holistically and to foster a collaborative environment throughout the program lifecycle.

Our partnership on programs/complex projects offers strategic stewardship to manage system development for whole programs, or parts of them, and deliver benefits to all stakeholders.

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Paul Quintavalle
Group Director, Systems Engineering, Integration and Assurance
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A Detailed Look at SI:D³

Three tiers define the SI:D3 framework. Each can be implemented individually or combined according to the complexity and risk throughout all phases of the SI/SE initiative.  

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SID3_Collaboration

Collaboration and communication are central to the SI:D3 framework, which brings together the best knowledge from people, teams and the organization. Considering each organization’s unique culture and stakeholder objectives, our approach facilitates effective multidisciplinary thinking and interaction for shared understanding and coordinated action toward delivery of the expected outcomes.
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SID3_Strategy

DEVELOP THE STRATEGY

At the beginning of each program, our practitioners partner to build a solid foundation—determine output capability, develop a governance structure to manage the program throughout the SI:D3 process, create a roadmap to success and forge alignment around the strategic plan.

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DEFINE THE SYSTEM

With a plan of action in place, our team then creates a holistic perspective of the system, to inform the process of defining the system—its operations, requirements, scope and design.

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DELIVER INTEGRATION

Building on the first two tiers within the framework, the effort now focuses on applying robust Systems Engineering (SE) techniques and leveraging the established management process to deliver the desired outcomes.

Tangible Benefits for the Client

What we do

Client Benefits

Set Clear Goals
  • A defined outcome in measurable terms
  • Clear direction for the program against which decisions can be made
  • An effective means of communicating the purpose of the endeavour to all involved

Establish governance
  • All decisions required for introducing the system into operational services will be allocated properly, with consideration of the technical, operational and programmatic risks
  • A framework to support assurance processes

Develop a system migration plan
  • A key planning tool which communicates the journey to the common end goal
  • A tool to support coordination across the program, contracts and stakeholders 

Develop the system architecture
  • Visibility of the system concept to senior management and discipline engineers/designers and other stakeholders
  • Optimization of the solution at a level of detail appropriate to the phase of the program
  • Assessment of feasibility of the solutions, highlighting risks and requirements

Align operations and engineering
  • Clear operational requirements against which the system design can be developed and verified
  • Confidence that a solution will be developed which can be operated/maintained

Identify and mitigate whole-system risks
  • Better understanding of the technical uncertainty within the program, through a holistic analysis
  • Ability to respond rapidly to escalations of risks and issues
  • Increased accuracy in cost and schedule forecasting
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"The application of a systems thinking approach is essential to delivering fully integrated outcomes on projects of all sizes. Our SI:D3 framework—the product of lessons learned from many projects and programmes—can be tailored to the risk and complexity of projects across an array of sectors."

Paul Quintavalle
Group Director, Systems Engineering, Integration and Assurance

Projects

Insights

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Delivering Digital Solutions With Systems Integration

Optimising software-based systems within infrastructure programmes to yield operational capability and performance for end-users
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Improving Governance In Infrastructure Projects to Accelerate Decision-Making

How the SI:D³ systems approach fosters delivery of intended benefits

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Applying a Systems Approach to Automation in Rail and Road Transport

Managing the risks emerging from complex, software-based autonomous systems in the transition to a world with self-driving vehicles

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Collaboration Drives Successful Systems Integration

This article explores practical methods for creating effective collaboration toward rail program delivery.

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Bringing Systems Integration to Rolling Stock

This article addresses the critical considerations and steps involved in the integration of rolling stock subsystems and their interfaces with the existing railway system. 

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Systems Integration Labs Make Ideal Proving Grounds

This article explores how systems integration labs catalyze the development, introduction and integration of new products for rail program success.

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Leading with Systems Integration

This article explores the leadership aspects of systems integration (SI) and how SI supports program delivery.

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Providing for Safety in Rail Megaprojects

This article explores how to address safety as railway programs become increasingly complex.

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From Silos to Integration

This article explores digital Transformation at Taoyuan International Airport, Taiwan 
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Strengthening Contract Management Through Systems Integration

This article explores how the use of systems integration principles and techniques can shape a holistic approach to devising procurement plans, commercial models and contracts for successful rail program delivery.  
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Achieving Systems Integration through Interoperability

This paper provides a case study on system of systems engineering (SoSE) being performed in a multi-billion-dollar program – the California High-Speed Rail System.

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The Infrastructure Project of The Future

Leapfrogging into a not-so-distant future, this article explores how technological advancements will significantly impact project delivery.

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How the systems engineering skill set can add value to your next project

This article discusses how systems engineers can bring great value to projects and programs by helping project managers to simplify complexity at the front end.  
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Delivering complexity in the rail industry - a system engineering approach to programme management

In this paper, a combination of System Engineering and Programme Management Techniques is proposed to bring order into managing the delivery. 

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Industry integration on the greater west programme: a case study

This paper presents a case study on how the Greater West Programme has been managed at a ‘whole-system’ level and how systems integration delivered the whole system outcomes.

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The Birth and Development of SID3 and Lessons Learned

This article explores the evolvement of WSP’s systems integration approach.

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Systems integration: navigating increasing complexity

All too often, major infrastructure programmes are subject to significant complications, which can delay delivery and breach the budget.

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Improving the Odds of Program Success: An Adaptive Development Model

This article explores how the application of flexibility principles within a systems integration (SI) framework fosters resilience to the impacts of destabilizing events, preparing programs to respond to uncertainty more effectively.

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Visualizing the End Goal in Rail Megaprojects

This article explores the value of using visualizations to create a universal understanding for successful delivery.

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Systems Integration Begins at the End

This article explores the development of system-level requirements to bring about desired rail program outcomes.