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.

Systems Integration

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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.

Paul Quintavalle

Group Director, Systems Engineering, Integration and Assurance

United Kingdom

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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.

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.

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.

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.

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

"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

Systems integration consulting projects

People and a rail car in a train platform | WSP

United Kingdom

Heathrow Rail Access Programme

WSP serves as Industry Systems Integrator for this complex large-scale rail project, providing stakeholders with high value strategic insights.

California, USA

California High Speed Rail

WSP is the rail delivery partner for the first high-speed rail system planned for implementation in the US and has developed new railway standards for HSR in the country.

United Kingdom

The Greater West – Industry System Integrator (GWISI)

The Greater West program is a complex program that will deliver a step change in the performance, capacity and connectivity across the Western and Wales Routes, in the UK.