Systems Engineering is an engineering field that takes an interdisciplinary approach to product development. Systems engineers analyze the collection of pieces to make sure when working together, they achieve the intended objectives or purpose of the product. For example, in automotive development, a propulsion system or breaking system will involve mechanical engineers, electrical engineers, and a host of other specialized engineering disciplines. 

Systems engineering is key to the success of a complex system and is used in many industries, such as medical device, automotive, and aerospace, to name a few.  

In this chapter, we’ll cover:  

• What systems engineering is  
• Fundamentals and best practices  
• The Systems Engineering Body of Knowledge (SEBoK)  
• The V-model of systems engineering