Systems Integration

Whether embarking on a new transport scheme or trying to get a program back 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 megaprojects. An established framework connects technical management to the program delivery process. This alignment results in the delivery of required system performance and operational capability, and expected end-user revenue services.

Systems integration (SI) provides tools and processes to drive the successful delivery of complex infrastructure and technology projects, making it perfect for application to rail megaprojects. An SI approach to managing interfaces, requirements and risks enhances the overall capability and value for money of a system, provides program certainty and delivers better outcomes for stakeholders and end users

Samantha McWilliam Rail Team Executive NSW

The genesis of the WSP SI capability is the delivery of the Victoria Line Upgrade and the early setup of the Thameslink Programme (Network Rail) in the United Kingdom, subsequently captured in 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 an adaptable framework to foster a collaborative environment throughout each program lifecycle and bring about specific outcomes. A key aspect of the SI:D³ approach is developing a common purpose and clear governance to help program directors, leaders and all other relevant stakeholders see the program holistically and clearly understand the complexity of large-scale transport projects.

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

A Detailed Look at SI:D³

Three groups—Develop the Strategy, Define the System and Deliver Integration—comprise the SI:D³ framework. The processes within each group can be implemented individually or with other processes according to the complexity, risk and lifecycle stage of the particular program.

SID3-Wheel

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