[DSRP Evidence](https://dsrpevidence.org/)

# Systems Thinking for Systems Engineers: A Foundational Skill

Gibson H, Gillespie S, Evangelista P, Dabkowski M, 2023, Journal of Systems Thinking 3(1):1-19 — Engineering

Patterns: [Distinctions](https://dsrpevidence.org/pattern/distinctions)

## In short

Explores the origins and core skills of systems engineering and argues that systems thinking is foundational to it.

## What they found (results)

The discipline needs integrators and a common lexicon; core competencies can be named, and there is a business case for investing in them.

## What they set out to do (purpose)

A chapter on the research, theory, and practice defining systems engineering — its origins, its definitions, and the competencies an effective systems engineer needs in a VUCA environment.

## Abstract

It is well established that the world is dynamic and complex and requires innovative thinkers who possess the cognitive capacity to ensure effective outcomes. This chapter explores the research, theory, and practice that helps us to define and better understand Systems Engineering. It provides three critical insights: (1) the origins of the discipline and why there is an expanded need for those who are integrators; (2) that there are many acceptable definitions for systems engineers, but a common lexicon is needed; and, (3) that there are core competencies that are desired to be an effective systems engineer in a vulnerable, uncertain, complex, and ambiguous environment. The chapter concludes with a business case for systems engineering competencies.

These researchers were not testing DSRP. The finding is theirs; the correspondence to DSRP is drawn by this site.

[Source](https://doi.org/10.54120/jost.000002)