1.4.2 Global System Architecture Optimization: Quantifying System Complexity
Ronald S. Carson · INCOSE International Symposium · 2000
Abstract Mathematical optimization techniques are applied to the problem of selecting an optimized system architecture. Using complexity criteria we seek the allocation of functions which globally minimizes coupling and fan‐out and maximizes cohesion. The technique requires detailed functional analysis at the next lower level of indenture prior to completing the architecture at the current level. This aspect raises issues regarding the decomposition process, since the “answer” for the prior level is not completed until the functional analysis is at least begun at the next lower level. It is found that a globally optimum architecture probably cannot be defined based solely on the analysis and allocation of functions. However, the attempt to quantify complexity can yield useful data for analyzing architecture alternatives.