Applying Systems Engineering to Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS) Projects

Description

This module introduces the systems engineering (SE) process as applied to intelligent transportation systems (ITS) projects. Participants learn how SE leads to quality systems that meet stakeholder needs through a structured, systems-thinking approach. The module covers key SE processes, including the “Vee Model,” which outlines system development from user needs and requirements through design, implementation, testing, and validation. Emphasis is placed on developing a Concept of Operations (ConOps)—a foundational document that defines project scope, stakeholders, user needs, operational scenarios, and performance considerations for ITS deployment.

The Introduction to Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS) module should be delivered prior to this module, depending on the participants’ familiarity with ITS.

Goal

The goal of the module is to emphasize the benefits of understanding and using a systems engineering approach, promote systems thinking, provide an over view of the critical documents developed when designing ITS solutions for transportation problems, and ultimately show how using a systems engineering approach leads to comprehensive, quality ITS deployments. More detailed resources are available, including those offered through the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) National Highway Institute (NHI).

Learning Outcomes

By the end of the module, participants should be able to:

• Explain the purpose of the systems engineering process.
• Describe how the systems engineering process leads to comprehensive intelligent transportation systems (ITS) that address transportation problems.
• Describe the Vee model approach, its role, and its importance in systems engineering.
• List the key components of a Concept of Operations (ConOps) and the questions it aims to answer.